Cornell University Athletics

At Cornell: A top prospect for the Big Red in the early season, Payne posted a 1:17.10 for 500 meters in her first competition before sitting out for several months with an illness. She regained some of her fitness during the indoor season and ran 57.6 for 400 meters on Cornell[apos]s third-place distance medley relay at the ECAC[apos]s. She was named to the All-East team. Outdoors, she ran several excellent 400 meters and began to make the move up to 800 meter running. She will concentrate on the middle distance events during her sophomore season. Payne is a fierce competitor and has excellent 400 speed which should translate into a successful transition. In the classroom, Payne was a member of the 400 Club for posting at least one semester with a 4.0 grade point average.

Top Performances: 400 meters--56.84; 500 meters--1:17:10; 800 meters--2:18.00.

At Elgin Park: Payne was one of the top sprinters in British Columbia at Elgin Park HS. She placed in the provincial finals at 400 meters in both her junior and senior seasons. Her best 400 finish was 56.84.

Personal: Erin Laura Ashley Payne is the daughter of Robert and Marilynn Payne and has a younger brother.