Pentathlon star is aiming higher

USA TODAY, March, 2007 by Christopher Lawlor

Ryann Krais isn't concerned with labels.

As the reigning pentathlon champion at the Nike Indoor Nationals, she's more focused on raising her performance level to national championship caliber.

"It's the best indoor meet of the season. The best athletes from all over will be there," said Krais, one of the nation's top junior athletes from Methacton High in Norristown, Pa.

Krais is one of almost 2,400 elite athletes competing Saturday and Sunday at the 23rd annual national high school indoor track and field championships at Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex in Landover, Md. The competition features 48 events -- 24 each for boys and girls.

The pentathlon, a five-event competition that combines track and field disciplines such as...