NCAA DI Outdoor Track and Field Championships 2013

English Gardner has right ankle inflammation, expects to run in 100m final

Jun 6, 2013 by Christopher Chavez

Oregon junior English Gardner limped off the track after finishing seventh in the 200-meter dash's semi-final on Thursday afternoon. The New Jersey native grimaced in pain and fell from fourth to seventh in a matter of seconds. She cited inflammation in her right ankle, but expects to continue running tomorrow.

"As you can see, I'm kind of banged up mentally and physically," Gardner said. "That's what makes us great. We get out there. We run hard, come back and make another show. So I'm just going to regroup and get ready for my next rounds."

Gardner is a crucial runner for the Ducks as she was slated to race in the women's 100-meter dash, 200-meter dash, 4x100-meter relay and 4x400-meter relay. Track and Field News projected her as the 100-meter champion and sixth place finisher in the 200-meter dash.

Jenna Prandini replaced Gardner in the women's 4x400-meter relay that won their semifinal section in 3:28.15.

"I never dwell on anything. I crossed the line. I had a little mind game, got myself together and now I'm ready to go," Gardner said. "I'm hungry, so I'm excited for this 100."

The women's 100-meter final is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. local time on Friday.