One of the great careers in Illini men's track and field, unfortunately, came to a premature end this weekend. Senior Gakologelwang Masheto, a six-time Big Ten champion and owner of three school records, wasn't able to run at the NCAA Mideast Regional Championships in Louisville, Ky., due to a knee injury.

The two-time All-American was scratched from his signature event -- the 400 meters -- as well as the 1,600 relay. The injury prevented Masheto from trying to qualify for  the NCAA Championships in the 400 for the fifth time in his three-year Illini career (indoors and outdoors).

After the 2008 Olympian from Botswana was scratched, Illini coach Wayne Angel revealed there was some question in the days leading up to the regional whether Masheto would be able to compete.

"For some reason his knee just reacted this week," Angel said. "I know that he would do anything for this team, but I didn't want to ask him to push it and risk further injury. He's had such an amazing career at Illinois and it's unfortunate that it will end like this. He's raised the bar in terms of what it means to be an Illini and he's done this university proud."

You might have seen the last of Masheto as an Illini, but look for him to continue to make an impact in the sport. Too bad he couldn't have ended his college career in a manner befitting his extraordinary talent.