Cliff Grassmick / Staff Photographer)
It would be easy for Val Constien to glance at the list of the decorated steeplechase athletes who came before her at Colorado and be daunted by the expectations at next week's NCAA Championships.
Constien, though, is comfortable in the knowledge she needs to set her own path. And after the physical trials of the past two years, Constien is just grateful for the opportunity.
When the NCAA outdoor track and field finals begin Wednesday in Eugene, Ore., Constien will be one of six CU athletes competing among the nation's best, a group that includes Erin Clark (5,000 and 10,000), Makena Morley (10,000), Kaitlyn Benner (10,000), Elissa Mann (800), and Zach Perrin (5,000).