Tollefson Out of Drake Relays

Carrie Tollefson has withdrawn from the Drake Relays 1500 meters, Team USA Minnesota has announced. The come-backing 2004 Olympian is fighting a lingering bronchial infection, according to a media release.

Tollefson, who missed most of the 2007 season with an abdominal injury, has had a bumpy 2008 season so far. The thirteen time MSHSL champion finished 14th at the Central Park Challenge 8K in New York City last month. In February, Tollefson finished 6th in the Tyson Invitational.

Three Team USA Minnesota athletes will compete at Drake: Emily Brown will contest the 3000-meter steeplechase, while Matt Gabrielson and Brad Lowery will compete in the special invitational mile -- which features American record-holder Alan Webb.

Carlson in Oregon ... Team USA Minnesota's Andrew Carlson will run the 5000 meters at the Oregon Relays in Eugene on Friday evening. The Oregon Relays will be held at historic Hayward Field, the site of the 2008 U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials this summer.

The meet marks the beginning of Carlson's outdoor track season. The reigning USA 15K champ withdrew from the Sun Angel Track Classic in Tempe April 12 due to illness. Carlson has a best in the distance of 13:32.71