Hamstring Injuries May Affect UCLA, USC in NCAA

Some key performers for the men’s and women’s track teams at UCLA and USC are bothered by hamstring injuries that may affect how the schools fare in the NCAA meet starting today at the Indiana University Track Stadium in Indianapolis.

UCLA freshman Henry Thomas is scheduled to run in the 400 meters and, if his leg holds up, will also compete in the 1,600-meter relay. The Bruins aren’t entered in the 400-meter relay.

Thomas’ teammate, Mike Powell, also has a hamstring injury but will compete in the long jump. He had been favored by Track & Field News to win the event.

USC’s Leslie Maxie, regarded as a strong contender in the women’s 400-meter intermediate hurdles, is favoring a hamstring injury. She will try to run the hurdles but may be held out of the 1,600-meter relay. USC’s women’s team is expected to contend for the team title. USC sprinter Luis (Pancho) Morales will most likely compete in the 100, 200 and short relay. He missed the Pacific 10 meet May 23-24 because of a severe case of shin splints.

UCLA’s Monica Phillips also has a hamstring injury, which may prevent her from competing in the relays.

UCLA’s versatile Gail Devers is scheduled for four events--the 100 meters, the 100 hurdles and the long and triple jumps.

Qualifying will start today with only one final, the women’s 10,000-meter run. The meet will end Saturday.