DALLAS (SMU) - The SMU Mustangs bring a strong field to this year’s NCAA Outdoor Track and Field championships with four women and nine men competing in 14 events, beginning Wednesday. The SMU women are making their 12th appearance (out of 14 years) since 1992 while the Mustang men are competing in their 14th consecutive NCAA Outdoor Championships. In 2003, the SMU men’s team placed 17th in last year’s NCAA Outdoor Championships.

Junior Hannes Hopley looks to defend his 2003 NCAA title in the discus. The native of Rustenburg, South Africa, set a new American Collegiate record at the NCAA Midwest Regionals on May 29 with a throw of 67.66 meters in the discus. He eclipsed his personal best by more than three meters. Hopley is also the 2004 WAC Outdoor champion in the shot put and the discus.

Competition begins June 9 and runs through Saturday, June 12. Complete information for this year's championship can be found at http://www.texassports.com