Legendary University of Arkansas cross country and track and field head coach John McDonnell has announced he is retiring following the 2008 outdoor track and field season following 36 years, 42 NCAA championships and 83 conference titles.

McDonnell’s 42 national titles are more than any coach in any sport in the history of collegiate athletics. He has won five national triple crowns, 20 conference triple crowns, 34 consecutive cross country conference championships, including 17 straight in the Southeastern Conference, and has been named national, regional or conference coach of the year a total of 140 times.

Other Reports:

• Hogwired.com - McDonnell Announces Retirement as Cross Country, Track and Field Head Coach
• Hogwired.com - John McDonnell Press Conference Transcript
• Hogwired.com - By The Numbers
• SI.com - Arkansas track legend McDonnell, 69, to retire after 36 seasons
• Wally Hall - Coach’s reign over college track last 36 years
• Jim Harris - McDonnell Will Leave a Legacy Unparalleled
• Bob Holt - Starting the bell lap, Ex-Hogs motivated by coach
• Nathan Allen - Coaches Remember McDonnell’s Accomplishments
• Robbie Neiswanger - University Track Coach Announces Retirement, McDonnell Hard To Replace
• Nate Allen - The finish line
• Ryan Malashock - Former Athletes Remember McDonnell’s Impact
• Marty Cook - McDonnell’s 42-title shadow looms large
• Terry Wood-  ‘Legendary’ sums up McDonnell

Source - UA Sports Information