Montana Track and Field kicks off outdoor season

MISSOULA, Mt. — The Al Manuel Invitational marks the start of the outdoor track and field season for the University of Montana, with the Griz hosting their first meet of the year. Among the athletes competing is Erin Wilde, Montana's high jump record holder, who is off to a strong start in 2025.

Wilde set the high jump record last year and recently claimed the Big Sky high jump title at the indoor championship in Flagstaff on March 1. As the team transitions from indoor to outdoor competition, Wilde expressed her enthusiasm for the change.

"I feel good, I'm super excited to be back outside," Wilde said. "It feels more like home than indoor, because I've always done outdoor. I love it here."

Assistant coach Erica Fraley highlighted the benefits and challenges of the transition. "Transitioning to outdoors is a fun transition, because you start feeling better, you have a few more weeks of training, and you're conditioned for the outdoors, but there's other transitions to deal with," Fraley said.

The Griz are eager to showcase their talents as they kick off the outdoor season at home.