BALTIMORE, Md. – The Penn Relays Carnival is gearing up to celebrate a new class of legends. It is announcing the inductees for its prestigious 2025 Wall of Fame. This year’s honorees comprise four exceptional individuals and two remarkable relay teams, including a record-breaking HBCU relay team from Morgan State. Their contributions to the Carnival have left an indelible mark on the event’s rich history. 

The formal induction ceremony is set to be a highlight of the 2025 Penn Relays. It will take place on the final day, Saturday, April 26th, at the iconic Franklin Field. Providing a fitting stage to recognize and celebrate these athletes’ outstanding achievements.

Morgan State’s fabled 1950 record-breaking 4×440 yard Championship of America relay team will be inducted into the Penn Relays Wall of Fame. The HBCU foursome consisted of Samuel LaBeach, Robert Tyler, William Brown, and George Rhoden.

Record Breakers

In 1950, Morgan’s sensational quartet ran off with the prize race at the Penn Relay Carnival in the record-breaking time of 3:13.6, breaking the previous Penn Relays record of 3:14.8 that had stood since 1939. The team featured LaBeach (49.9), Tyler (48.7), Brown (47.5), and Rhoden (47.5), giving Morgan its first victory at the Penn Relays and vindicated themselves for a disqualification that had deprived them of the same honor in 1949.

In 1949, the Morgan foursome’s track prowess was undeniable, having decisively outpaced a formidable field, including Cornell, NYU, Georgetown, Army, Manhattan, and Villanova. However, a controversial ruling snatched victory from their grasp. Despite finishing behind the Morgan team. NYU was awarded the win based on a claim that LaBeach, a member of the Morgan quartet, had illegally used his hands on the initial turn. Allegedly jeopardizing his team’s qualification. The sting of the decision was amplified by the significant margin of victory. NYU, timed at 3:15.6, trailed the Bears by approximately 20 yards. Giving rise to the presumption Morgan must have done close to a 3.14 for their triumph.

After Morgan’s 1950 breakthrough victory, the Bears established a dynasty, claiming four more 4×440 titles over the next 32 years.  This period solidified Morgan’s reputation as a sprinting relay national powerhouse in collegiate track throughout the 1950s.

Nationwide Attention

The HBCU team continued to win at the prestigious Melrose Games in New York City and other meets throughout the country. The historic four ran a 3:09.4 at the Los Angeles Coliseum Relays, two seconds off the World Record. Morgan State College gained widespread recognition. Sports Illustrated, Time Magazine, Ebony Magazine, and the Afro-American Newspaper featured the team in their publications. The foursome became goodwill ambassadors for Morgan, both nationally and internationally.

The Penn Relays Wall of Fame was created in 1994 to celebrate the Carnival’s 100th running. The class of 2025 brings the number of inductees to 130 individuals and 117 relay teams. This year’s individuals and relay squads were selected by a panel of Penn Relays experts. Inductees are honored solely for their accomplishments at the Penn Relays; achievements in any other meets are not considered. The Penn Relays office will accept nominations of relay teams and individuals at any time and from any interested party. 

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COLUMBIA, SC – Senior North Carolina A&T (NCAT) indoor track and field women’s hurdler/sprinter Lucheyona Weaver headlined the day at the University of South Carolina’s Gamecock Challenge on Saturday by beating Olympian Gabbi Cunningham in the 60-meter hurdle final at the Carolina Indoor Track and Field Complex. In addition to Weaver’s outstanding showing, the A&T men’s and women’s HBCU indoor track and field teams found a sea of success with numerous top-three finishes.

Weaver went toe-to-toe with Cunningham, who appeared in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games for the 100H. Weaver fell behind Cunnigham in the preliminaries as she crossed in 8.36 to qualify second, but in the finals, she overtook the Nike-sponsored athlete by posting an 8.16 to Cunninham’s 8.31.

The two-time Coastal Athletic Association 60H champion has six career 60H wins, including two this season. Weaver is ranked No. 12 nationally in the women’s 60H.  

On the men’s side, junior Thomas Smith IV (7.95), sophomore Isaiah Taylor (7.97), and junior Jason Holmes (8.20), respectively, qualified first, second, and fifth in the 60H. Later in the day, Holmes and Smith IV battled it out in the finals, finishing milliseconds apart.

Both marked a 7.8 on the official’s sheet, but Holmes (7.772) placed first and Smith IV (7.777) took second while claiming a new personal record. Taylor finished sixth in 8.37.

Senior Spirit Morgan made her second appearance and took her second win as an Aggie, conquering the women’s high jump in 5 feet, 8 inches.

Another HBCU track and field newcomer, sophomore Dyimond Walker, made his Aggie debut Aggie in the men’s 600 meters. Walker is a transfer from New Mexico Junior College, and in his first Division I race, he managed to finish second in 1:19.76.

The other top runs of the day came from senior Fajr Kelly (2:07.76), who placed second in the women’s 800m, and sophomore Serenity Brazell (56.62) who placed second in the women’s 400m.

Taking some more top spots in the women’s field events included graduate student My’Khiyah Williams (5 feet, 6 inches) claiming second in the high jump; junior Olivia Dowd (38 feet, 5 ½ inches) finding third in the triple jump; and graduate student Julieth Nwosu (48 feet, 4 ¾ inches) and junior Taylor Reagor (44 feet, 6 ¾ inches) took second and third in the shot put.

Freshman TyHeak Buie placed second in the men’s triple jump at 51 feet, 2 ¼ inches. Buies previous personal record was 49 feet, 3 ¾ inches from the Corky Classic at Texas Tech University last month.

Next week, the HBCU track teams at North Carolina A&T will be headed north to Lynchburg, Va., for Liberty University’s Liberty Opener. The teams will compete February 7-8 at the Liberty Indoor Track Complex.

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LUBBOCK, Texas – The HBCU men’s and women’s indoor track and field teams from North Carolina A&T saw a school record fall on Day One of the 2025 Corky Classic at Texas Tech University’s Sports Performance Center.

Junior Jason Holmes has officially won all three of his 60-meter hurdles finals this season and now holds the North Carolina A&T 60H program record. Nine months earlier, Holmes broke the record at the HBCU in the 110H at Penn Relays by running a 13.43.

Championing the final at the Corky Classic, Holmes marked a personal best of 7.54 to topple the old Aggies record of 7.55, held by Leonard Mustari from the Tiger Paw Invite at Clemson University on Feb. 12, 2022.

On Tuesday, Holmes was honored as the Coastal Athletic Conference (CAA) men’s track athlete of the week – making it the second time he received the award this season after competing in only two previous meets. His recent run currently ranks him as the No. 2 runner in the country, behind Johnny Brackins (7.49) from the University of California (rankings are updated after weekend competitions are completed).

Joining Holmes in the hurdles, sophomore Isaiah Taylor crossed second in Heat 1 of the semifinals and finished with a personal record of 7.74. He placed fifth overall after posting a 7.75 in the finals.

On the women’s side, senior Lucheyona Weaver also saw a good day in the 60H. In the semis, she placed first in the second heat while running a personal-record 8.11. In the finals, she finished fifth in 8.14. After moving to No. 9 on the NCAA Div I list this past week, her new PR could bump her back up to No. 5.

Senior Fajr Kelly took home a second-place title for the women in the 800m, coming in just behind Texas Christian University’s Tabitha Ngao, with a time of 2:09.8. And sophomore Serenity Brazell placed sixth in 2:15.16.

While competing in the 800m for the men, junior Dawson Grogan ran a personal-record 1:53.23 to shave one second off his indoor record of 1:54.3, and freshman Elijah Thomas followed up with a run of 1:54.35.

On Day Two of the Corky Classic, the Aggies will compete in 200m and several field events at the Texas Tech Sports Performance Center.

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INSTITUTE, W.Va. – HBCU West Virginia State University (WVSU) has been awarded  $250,000 by the Kanawha County Commission to help build a new track and field complex at the university. The funding comes from American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds and was approved by the commission at its Wednesday meeting. 

“We are grateful to the Kanawha County Commission for their support to build a track and field complex at West Virginia State University,” said WVSU President Ericke S. Cage. “This new facility will not only be a tremendous asset for our university and our student-athletes, but for the entire Kanawha County community giving local middle school and high school students an opportunity to also practice and train here. Since relaunching our track and field programs we have been actively working to raise the funds necessary to build a facility on our campus and this commitment from the Kanawha County Commission is a tremendous boost to that work.”

WVSU brought back its men’s and women’s track and field teams last year. Since their return, the teams have been practicing at off-campus facilities in the Kanawha Valley. 

“This is another remarkable display of the commission’s dedication to not only supporting our student-athletes at West Virginia State University but all the youth in Kanawha County,” said WVSU Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Nate Burton. “This new facility will provide championship caliber resources for our track and field student-athletes, while also supplying an additional track that the community can use. Similar to the way all of our athletic facilities are used, we envision high schools, middle schools, and area youth organizations using the facility to train and host meets.”

In addition to being the future home of Yellow Jackets track and field, once completed the facility could also help to recruit larger track and field events to the region, Burton said, similar to the large events that the nearby Shawnee Sports Complex has been able to attract.

The HBCU track will also be open to area residents to come and walk and run when not in use.

Fundraising for the construction of the new track and field complex is ongoing. For those interested in giving, donations may be made online at https://connect.wvstateu.edu/foundation/athletics.

About West Virginia State University

West Virginia State University is a public, land-grant, historically black university (HBCU) that has evolved into a fully accessible, racially integrated, and multi-generational institution located in Institute, W.Va. As a “living laboratory of human relations,” the university is a community of students, staff, and faculty committed to academic growth, service, and preservation of the racial and cultural diversity of the institution. Its mission is to meet the state and region’s higher education and economic development needs through innovative teaching and applied research.

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (October 7, 2024) – Jacksonville, FL HBCU Edward Waters University is pleased to announce its selection as the host for two prestigious NCAA Division II Championships. The university will hold the 2027 NCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball Championship, as well as the 2028 NCAA Division II Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships. Additionally, the University of North Florida will host the 2027 NCAA Division I Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field First Round Championships.

This marks a historic milestone for Jacksonville and its only HBCU, which will host these Division II collegiate tournaments for the first time. The city has never previously hosted three distinct championships within a two-year period. Edward Waters University’s recent transition to Division II status has enabled Jacksonville to bid for these national championships, in collaboration with the University of North Florida.

“We are thrilled that Jacksonville has been awarded these tournaments and eagerly anticipate welcoming fans, friends, and family to the events,” stated Michael Corrigan, President and CEO of Visit Jacksonville and President of the Jacksonville Sports Foundation. “The successful collaboration among Visit Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Sports Foundation, the Jacksonville City Council, the City of Jacksonville Office of Sports and Entertainment, Edward Waters University, Jacksonville University, and the University of North Florida has made this achievement possible. We look forward to further partnerships with the NCAA to bring additional events to Florida’s Championship City.”

Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr., President and CEO of Edward Waters University, expressed his enthusiasm regarding this opportunity:

“This is a monumental moment for Edward Waters University and the city of Jacksonville. Being selected to host these NCAA Division II Championships reflects our institution’s growth and commitment to athletic excellence. As the first HBCU in Florida to transition to NCAA Division II, we are proud to showcase our capabilities on a national platform. These events will not only provide thrilling competition on our campus but will also significantly benefit our local community. We are excited to welcome student-athletes from across the nation and highlight the warm hospitality of Edward Waters University and Jacksonville.”

The collaborative efforts among these organizations have significantly influenced Jacksonville’s sports bidding strategies. These strong partnerships have shifted the city’s focus toward future sports events, leading to bids for 16 NCAA Division I and II championships for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 academic years across men’s and women’s basketball, outdoor track, soccer, and women’s volleyball.

These esteemed NCAA Division II Championships represent a pivotal milestone in Edward Waters University’s journey toward enhanced prominence. Dr. Ivana Rich, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics at EWU, elaborated on the importance of these events:

“We are thrilled to serve as hosts for the 2027 NCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball Championship and the 2028 NCAA Division II Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships in collaboration with our partners at UNF,” Dr. Rich said.” This underscores our dedication to athletic excellence and positions Jacksonville as a dynamic sports hub. We look forward to welcoming athletes and fans nationwide to enjoy our outstanding facilities and warm hospitality. We truly value the collaboration with UNF and Visit Jacksonville to make this dream a reality. I take immense pride in representing the NCAA Division II membership on this stage and look forward to providing these student-athletes with a world-class experience.”

The championships are anticipated to yield numerous benefits for Edward Waters University, including:

• Increased national visibility for the institution
• Enhanced recruitment opportunities for both athletes and non-athletes
• Improved campus facilities to meet NCAA standards
• Strengthened partnerships with local businesses and organizations
• Economic benefits for the surrounding community

“These events will serve as a catalyst for our ongoing growth and development,” Dr. Faison added. “They exemplify our commitment to excellence in all aspects of university life and will inspire our students, faculty, and staff to achieve new heights. As we prepare to welcome the nation’s top Division II athletes, we are also ready to present Edward Waters University as a rising star in higher education.”

By successfully hosting these championships, Edward Waters University aims to solidify its position as a leader among HBCU and Division II institutions, further advancing its mission of emerging prominence in both academic and athletic spheres.

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Anna Cockrell is the daughter of Kieth Cockrell, the vice chair of the board of trustees for Johnson C. Smith University, and had a hall of fame high school track career in Charlotte at Providence Day under current Johnson C Smith University track coach Carol Lawrence.

Johnson C. Smith University’s social media accounts were ablaze with images and video of the Olympian’s visit taken by JCSU biology major Jay Smarr. Cockrell met with the team at the school’s track and football field, the Irwin Belk Complex. Wearing an official Team USA jacket and sporting her Olympic silver medal, the 2021 NCAA champion in the 100m hurdles and 400m hurdles spoke to the team about the sacrifices she made during her collegiate career that ultimately led to her Olympic success.

“Nothing was going to stop me from what I had to do like that’s really how I felt,” Cockrell says in the video. “I mean Coach Lawerence knows this, I’ve sacrificed a lot,” she tells the HBCU track squad. ” I was in LA for college, then I left LA to move to Texas when I went pro, my coach took a job at Arkansas, and the last thing I wanted to do was move to Arkansas.”

Those sacrifices helped her go from NCAA National Champion to the women’s 400m hurdle final at the Tokyo Olympics and eventually become an Olympic Silver Medalist in Paris in the summer of 2024.

The Irwin Belk Complex at Johnson C Smith University features an Olympic-sized track and has been the site of several major track and field events including the US Paralympic Track and Field trials and the AAU Summer Games. Positioned just beneath the skyline of the city of Charlotte it had to imagine Cockrell didn’t run a race or two on the HBCU track during her 6-time All-American high school career.

Cockrell ranks No. 1 all-time in North Carolina history in three events: 100m hurdles (13.17), 300m hurdles (40.42), and the 400m hurdles (55.20).  She was a 16-time NCISAA state champion in the 100m (2013-16), 200m (2016), 100m hurdles (2013-16), 300m hurdles (2013-16), 4x100m (2013) and 4x400m (2014-15) and was a 2-time World Junior Champion in the 400m hurdles and 4x400m relay as a high school senior and the Pan Am Champion in the 400m hurdles as a junior.  

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BALTIMORE, Md. – Morgan State University is deeply saddened by the loss of George Rhoden, an HBCU Olympian and former track and field legend who passed away on August 24, 2024, at the age of 97. Rhoden, a native of Jamaica, attended Morgan State (1950-52) where he excelled in track and field. He was hailed by many as the best quarter-miler to have ever represented Jamaica.

In 1952, Rhoden represented Jamaica at the Olympic Games in Helsinki, Finland, where he won a gold medal in the 400-meter race and was a member of the Golden Quartet that won the 4x400m. a silver medal in the 800-meter race. He became the first Jamaican to win an Olympic gold medal in track and field and was hailed as a national hero.

Born on December 13, 1926, in Kingston, Jamaica, Rhoden’s journey to Olympic greatness began in the late 1940s, when he emerged as one of the leading long sprinters of his era. Alongside his compatriots Arthur Wint and Herb McKenley, Rhoden helped establish Jamaica as a dominant force in athletics during the post-war period.

Rhoden first competed in the 1948 London Olympics, where he participated in the 100m and 400m events. Although he did not secure a medal in London, it was a precursor to the greatness that would follow. Rhoden and his teammates were expected to perform strongly in the 4x400m relay, but a muscle injury to Wint during the final dashed their hopes of a medal.

Rhoden continued to emerge in the world of track & field. On August 22, 1950, he shattered the world record in the 400m, setting an astonishing time of 45.8 seconds in Eskilstuna, Sweden. His dominance in the 400m was further cemented by his victories in the AAU championships from 1949 to 1951 and the NCAA championships while at HBCU Morgan State University, where he claimed titles in the 220-yard (200m) and 440-yard (400m) events.

At the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Rhoden’s athletic prowess soared to new heights. As a pre-race favorite in the 400m, Rhoden’s every stride was fueled by anticipation. In a race that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, Rhoden emerged victorious, narrowly edging out his close friend and fellow Jamaican, Herb McKenley, to claim the gold medal. But Rhoden’s Olympic glory did not end there. As the anchor leg of Jamaica’s 4x400m relay team, he led his team to victory, securing a second gold medal and setting a new world record of 3:03.9. This victory was especially sweet, as it came against the United States, the country where Rhoden had made his home after moving to San Francisco.

Rhoden’s legacy is one of perseverance, excellence, and national pride. His achievements paved the way for future generations of HBCU and Jamaican athletes, setting a standard of excellence that continues to inspire.

As the last surviving member of that legendary 1952 relay team–comprising George Rhoden, Herb McKenley, Arthur Wint, and Les Laing–his passing marks the end of an era for Jamaican athletics. Rhoden’s contributions to the sport, both on and off the track, will be remembered as a cornerstone of Jamaica’s rich sporting heritage.

George Rhoden is survived by his family, friends, and a grateful nation that will forever honor his contributions to Jamaica’s sporting legacy.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Rhoden was a dedicated HBCU educator and mentor. He taught physical education and coached track and field at Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia. He also served as the president of the Jamaican Amateur Athletic Association and was a member of the International Olympic Committee.

Rhoden’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of student-athletes and track and field enthusiasts. He will be remembered as a true pioneer and a champion who represented Morgan State University with pride and distinction.

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HAMPTON, Va. — Hampton University graduates and former HBCU roommates Edose Ibadin and Chidi Okezie wrapped up competition for Nigeria in the Paris Olympic Games in early August.

“Our two former Pirates, Edose Ibadin and Chidi Okezie represented themselves, their family, their country, and the university well at the Paris Olympic Games,” said Hampton head coach Maurice Pierce. “Competing in the Olympic Games is our sport’s highest honor and we are very proud of them”. 

Pierce coached both HBCU athletes during their time at Hampton. Ibadin competed in the men’s 800m race.

“What it meant to be able to compete at the Olympics is that my hard work has not only paid off but the people who have invested in me over the years got a huge return,” said Ibadin. “I may have been competing on the track individually but I was not alone. There have been so many people who have been a part of my journey and I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Ibadin continued, “This has been a dream come true and I know I’ll be able to carry this experience with me for the rest of my life. Who I have become on this journey to the Olympics will for sure help me in many other areas of my life.”

Okezie also ran for Nigeria in the mixed 4x400m, the men’s 400m, and the men’s 4x400m.

“It’s definitely a great experience,” said Okezie. “Being able to run on the track in multiple events, the 400m and the 4x400m relay. I didn’t get the results that I wanted, but the experience to get on the track and seeing my daughter watching me run was amazing. Watching her face light up after the race, couldn’t have asked for more.”

Okezie also explained that running on the track at the Paris Olympic Games was sensational. “Coming from the tunnel, hearing the crowd, 80,000 from the stands…it was like a dream come true.”

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Smith hit the ground running once the Name, Image, and Likeness rules were passed for college athletes in July of 2021, becoming a brand ambassador for dozens of companies while advocating for deals for other HBCU athletes, earning him the title of the “King of NIL,” now, four years later, he has the possibility of being named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list.

“When it came out, I just said – I’ve been doing it – so I might as well get paid for doing it now,” Smith told WAVY-TV in 2021.

“It don’t matter how big the brand it is, how small the brand is – if it fits me, I’m going to stick with it. I’m gonna go with it, and hopefully, it will be a long-term deal and go a long way… My big, main goal, is to help every HBCU athlete get on some type of deal or sponsorship, I feel like we’re not as big as a Power Five school, so I’m trying to make an example that we can get deals no matter what school you’re at.”

Rayquan Smith became the first HBCU athlete to sign an endorsement deal with sneaker giant Eastbay, who later featured HBCU football athletes in a campaign at the HBCU combine.

Since starting his NIL journey, Rayquan Smith has landed over 80 NIL deals from brands like Coach, Pedialyte, Crocs, and CVS and has co-founded his own NIL service “SponsorPro” a digital marketplace where brands and athletes unite for game-changing partnerships through their digital marketplace. 

“SponsorPro sets itself apart with a platform that customizes NIL chances for athletes by fusing cutting-edge technology with a personalized touch,” Smith told Sports Illustrated. “With the use of analytics and a connection-building approach, SponsorPro distinguishes itself by providing meaningful relationships that complement the individual identities and values of each athlete. We place a high value on community development, openness, and simplicity to provide an unmatched experience in the congested NIL platform market.”

Smith started his HBCU football career at Norfolk State, breaking out in 2019 as a freshman with a 62-yard run against North Carolina A&T with his first carry in college. He finished the year ranked second on the team with 430 rushing yards but COVID-19 and injuries caused the Richmond, Va. native to hit the transfer portal, landing at one of Norfolk State’s biggest rivals, Virginia State University, where he helped the track program win its third straight CIAA Championship in 2023.

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Her journey to international success began at Livingstone College, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Salisbury, North Carolina. During her time at Livingstone, Hayes showcased her exceptional talent, becoming a standout performer in the CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) and earning multiple conference titles.

Hayes’ dominance on the track at the collegiate level paved the way for her professional career. After graduating from Livingstone, she transitioned smoothly into the professional circuit, quickly making her mark. She won her first U.S. National Championship in 2017, establishing herself as one of the top 400-meter runners in the country.

She qualified for the Tokyo Olympics by winning the U.S. Olympic Trials in the 400 meters, edging out Alyison Felix. She finished seventh at the Olympics in Tokyo.

Throughout her career, Quanera Hayes has been an inspiration, especially to young athletes from HBCUs. Her success has highlighted the competitive opportunities at HBCUs and underscored the ability of these institutions to develop world-class athletes. Hayes continues to be a prominent figure in track and field, representing the strength, resilience, and excellence of HBCU athletes on the global stage. And now she has a gold medal from the Paris Olympics.

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PARIS — Making her Paris Olympics debut, former HBCU Track & Field student-athlete Monae’ Nichols of Bethune-Cookman advanced to the finals of the Women’s Long Jump following Tuesday’s semifinals on August 6, at the Stade de France.
 
Nichols recorded a jump of 6.64 to book a place in the final of the Women’s Long Jump. Similar to her Olympic qualification, it was Nichols’ final jump in the semifinals that saw her through to the final with the eighth-best overall performance in the round.
 
She will serve as one of 12 participants in the finals.
 
Before transferring to Texas Tech, Nichols competed for Daytona Beach, FL HBCU Bethune-Cookman from 2018-21, while she would finish her senior season in Lubbock, Texas, with B-CU Athletics suspended for the duration of the 2020-21 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
In her time as a Wildcat, Nichols competed in the 2019 NCAA Outdoor Nationals in the long jump, while also competing in the 2019 NCAA East Preliminaries in the 4×100. She was the 2018 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) champion in the long jump during the outdoor season and took home top honors in the MEAC during the 2018 indoor season as well, completing back-to-back individual titles across the campaign.

 
The finals of the Women’s Long Jump for the Paris 2024 Olympics are scheduled for Thursday, August 8, at 2 p.m. EST.
 
Follow Bethune-Cookman Track & Field on Twitter (@BCUTrackXC) and Instagram (@BCUXCTF) for all of the latest news and updates. For all Bethune-Cookman Athletics news, follow us on Twitter (@BCUAthletics), Instagram (@BCU_Athletics) and BCUathletics.com.

Monae’ Nichols at Bethune Cookman (2018-20)
2019 NCAA OUTDOOR NATIONAL PARTICIPANT (LONG JUMP, 18TH)
2019 NCAA EAST PRELIMINARY (4X100 RELAY, 24TH)
2019 NCAA EAST PRELIMINARY (LONG JUMP, 8TH)
2019 MEAC INDOOR WOMEN’S LONG JUMP CHAMPION
2018 NCAA OUTDOOR NATIONAL PARTICIPANT (4X100, 21ST)
2018 NCAA EAST PRELIMINARY (4×100 RELAY, 12TH)
2018 NCAA EAST PRELIMINARY (LONG JUMP, 14TH)
2018 MEAC OUTDOOR WOMEN’S LONG JUMP CHAMPION

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ACCRA, Ghana — Former HBCU men’s track & field standout Joseph Amoah of Coppin State University has been selected as the captain and flagbearer for Ghana during the 2024 Paris Olympics, which will take place from July 26 through August 11.  Amoah is making his second Olympics appearance at the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, where he will be competing in the 4x100m Relay.
 
“I would like to say thank you to the team for selecting me as captain and flagbearer of the opening ceremony,” said Amoah. “It’s an honor to me. It makes me feel honored and distinguished to have this type of opportunity.  I feel like its another milestone in my career. Not a lot of people even get the chance to compete in the Olympics so being able to compete and getting selected as the flagbearer is mindblowing. I can’t thank God enough.”
 
Ghana will be presenting nine athletes at this year’s Paris Olympics. The heats of the 4x100m will be run on August 8 at 5:35 am ET with the final set for 1:45 pm ET on August 9.

A native of Accra, Ghana, Joseph Amoah was a seven-time USTFCCCA All-American and the 2019 and 2021 Mid-Atlantic Region Track & Field Athlete of the Year. At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Amoah took 13^th in the 200m with a time of 20.27 in the semifinals. Amoah also anchored the 4x100m Relay to the finals at the Olympics in a national record time of 38.08, chasing down the United States anchor for the final qualifying spot in the final.
 
Amoah owns personal record times of 9.94 in the 100m dash and 20.08 in the 200m dash while holding records at his HBCU Coppin State in the 100m, 200m, 4x100m, 4x200m and 4x400m Relays.

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DENMARK, S.C. — Garon Jackson, the Director of Track & Field at Daytona Beach, FL HBCU Bethune-Cookman, has been announced to the 2024 class of the Voorhees University Athletics Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place during Homecoming weekend in September. Voorhees University is a private career-oriented HBCU in Denmark, South Carolina.
 
Jackson, a 1999 HBCU graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, left an indelible mark on the institution’s track and field program during his tenure as a student-athlete. His exceptional performances and leadership on the track paved the way for a stellar coaching career that has spanned nearly two decades.
 
“This is a great honor,” said Jackson, who returned to Bethune-Cookman as the Director of Track & Field during the 2023-24 season. “God has truly blessed me and my family and continues to shine light and grace upon my family. I definitely appreciate the coaches that coached me over the years; the athletes that I’ve sowed into over the years and my college teammates that created a winning culture at Voorhees University, and those that are doing great things after graduating.”
 
During his time at Voorhees, Jackson competed as a middle/long distance runner for the Tigers.  He still holds the Voorhees and Eastern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (EIAC) records in the 800, 1500, 5000, and 10000 meters in addition to cross country records. Jackson was the EIAC Most Valuable Runner for four years in cross country and three years in Track and Field, finishing undefeated at the Eastern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (EIAC) Championships throughout his entire collegiate career.
 
Jackson also served as head coach at his alma mater for track & field, where he spent five years at the helm of the Tigers program. During his stint at Voorhees, Jackson produced several National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) National Qualifiers as well as All-Americans and an NAIA National Champion.

 
“I want to thank Voorhees University for taking a chance on a young man from Sumter, South Carolina, and creating a foundation in me — one that everything I am as a person is built upon,” said Jackson.
 
In 2020, he took the helm as track & field head coach at Claflin in his home state of South Carolina. In just three seasons, Jackson guided the Panthers to their first-ever Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Men’s Indoor Track & Field Championship in 2023. That led to Jackson being tabbed CIAA Men’s Indoor Coach of the Year.
 
Jackson was named to the Sumter Sports Hall of Fame in 2017.
 
The induction ceremony will take place on Saturday, September 7, 2024. Jackson will be one of five inductees in this year’s class, joining a distinguished group of alumni who have made significant contributions to athletics at Voorhees and beyond.
 
For more information about the 2024 Voorhees Athletics Hall of Fame induction ceremony, please visit VoorheesAthletics.com.

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Traditionally, the top three finishers at the trials automatically make the Olympic team. But Snowden and others had not met the Olympic standard jump of 2.33 meters, even though he finished second in the trials.  

Shelby McEwen, the only jumper to beat Snowden at the Olympic Trials won gold by clearing 2.30 meters. He had previously cleared the Olympic standard height during a meet in the Czech Republic, so his first-place finish secured him a spot in Paris.

The rest of the team could not be officially selected until the world rankings were updated. JuVaughn Harrison was ranked third and was the only American besides McEwen to have met the Olympic standard. He cleared 2.36 meters during a meet in Budapest, Hungary.

Vernon Turner claimed the final spot on the USA high jump team for the Paris Olympics by being the highest-ranked American after the two automatic qualifiers. Turner, ranked 20th, did not reach the finals at the US Olympic trials, but his performances throughout the season earned him enough points in the world ranking system to make the trip to Paris.

Caleb Snowden is the first track & field athlete in UAPB history to advance to the US Olympic Team Trial Finals.

“It feels good competing against the best in the country in the Olympic Trial to represent the USA Team in Paris, said Snowden to the school’s media department.  “My training had been going well, and it’s an honor to be among the top 12 to compete in Sunday finals”.

Snowden made history earlier this year at the NCAA Indoor Championships by becoming the first high jumper from an HBCU to secure a top-three position in both the NCAA Indoor and Outdoor Championships in the same year.

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PARIS — Former HBCU Track & Field standouts from Bethune-Cookman Sade McCreath and Monae’ Nichols are each headed to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics — officially Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, taking place July 26 through August 11. McCreath will represent Canada in the Games, while Nichols is competing for the United States of America.
 
Known by all as Sade McCreath-Tardiel at Bethune-Cookman where she competed for the Wildcats under former head coach Donald Cooper — and current head coach Garon Jackson, who was an assistant coach at the time under Cooper, hails from Ajax, Ontario. She qualified to represent Team Canada at the 2024 Summer Olympics as a member of the 4×100 Women’s Relay Team. She helped lead Canada to a 42.98-second time in the World Athletic Relays, with Les Rouges setting a new season-low time in the process.
 
The Canadians have not medaled in the 4×100 event on the women’s side in the Summer Olympics since 1984, with the combination of Angela Bailey, France Gareau, Angella Isaajenko, and Marita Wiggins collecting the silver medal.
 
At Bethune-Cookman, McCreath was a member of the NCAA East Preliminary 4×100 relay team, as well as competing individually in the 2019 NCAA East Prelim 100-meter relay. She took part in the 2018 NCAA Outdoor Championships for the Maroon and Gold as well.

 
Monae’ Nichols competed in HBCU track for Bethune-Cookman from 2018-21, before transferring to Texas Tech after the COVID-19 global pandemic suspended Wildcats Athletics during the 2020-21 campaign.
 
In turning in her best performance of the season at the Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon, Nichols performed a season-best 6.86 meters leap in the long jump, earning qualification to the Paris Summer Olympics to represent her home country of the United States. The qualification occurred on what was her sixth and final attempt in the 2024 U.S. Olympic Track & Field Team Trials.
 
During her time in HBCU track at Bethune-Cookman, Nichols competed in the 2019 NCAA Outdoor Nationals in the long jump, while also competing in the 2019 NCAA East Preliminaries in the 4×100. She was the 2018 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) champion in the long jump during the outdoor season and took home top honors in the MEAC during the 2018 outdoor season as well, completing back-to-back individual titles.
 
Coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics begins July 26, with the Opening Ceremonies on Peacock.

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WASHINGTON — With the 2024 Paris Olympics less than a month away, thousands of athletes have punched their tickets to the hottest summer sporting event of the year. Among those athletes is former HBCU track standout from Howard University and All-American Jessika Gbai, who will represent the Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) in this year’s Summer Games.
 
Gbai won the 200-meter dash at the 2024 African Athletics Championships (June 21-26), clocking in at 22.84, while earning a spot in Paris. She edged out teammate Maboundou Koné (22.99).
 
In May, the Côte d’Ivoire teammates were part of the 4×100 relay team at the 2024 World Relays Championships (May 4-5) in Nassau, Bahamas where they qualified for the Paris Olympics.
 
Jessika Gbai, who attended Central H.S. in Philly, earned numerous accolades during her time at The Mecca. The former HBCU walk-on received USTFCCCA All-America First Team with the legendary 4×400 relay squad at the 2022 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track & Field Championships. Individually, she picked up All-America Second Team honors after finishing 12th in the 200-meter dash.

 
Howard University US Olympic Trials Recap
 
During the last couple of weeks, more than a dozen Bison across four countries in three continents competed in trials but fell just short of reaching Paris. Despite their setbacks, several current and former Bison had solid outings in the quest to be an Olympian.
 
On the track, former standouts Dylan Beard (Baltimore) and Jessica Wright (Durham, N.C.) and graduate Simone Watkins (Frisco, Texas) made the US Olympic Trials Semifinal Round.
 
In the pool, recent grad Miles Simon (Atlanta) reached the US Olympic Trials Semifinals, competing in the 50-meter freestyle.
 
In the Bahamas, the Thompson Family, consisting of Luke-Kennedy Thompson (Nassau, Bahamas), Erald Thompson III (Nassau, Bahamas), Mark-Anthony Thompson (Nassau, Bahamas) and Zaylie-Elizabeth Thompson (Nassau, Bahamas), along with Jack Barr (Nassau, Bahamas) and dual-citizen Tristan Stevens (Chicago, Ill) put on outstanding performances with top three finishes in their respective events.
 
2024 PARIS OLYMPICS
 
The 2024 Summer Olympics is scheduled for July 26 to Aug. 11 in Paris, France.

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Williams ran a 12.53 in the Jamaican 100m hurdles finals – good for second to Ackera Nugent who shattered the Jamaican Record, running a blistering 12.28s. Her mark is the current world-leading time and the eighth-fastest-ever run by a woman in the event.

Williams will be taking her talents in Paris, making her debut at the Olympics. But she’s far from a novice on the world stage. She’s a two-time winner of the World Championships in the 100m hurdles, and the reigning world champion.

Following in the footsteps of her sister, Shermaine Williams, Danielle Williams attended Johnson C. Smith where she was a standout at the Division II level. Both sisters have run for the Jamaican national team in international competitions.

Danielle Williams won nine NCAA titles (eight individual, one relay), 13 CIAA championships (11 individual, two relay), earned 13 All-America honors between 2013 and 2014. She also won USTFCCCA National Women’s Indoor Track or Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year three times during her time at the Charlotte, NC-based HBCU. 

Danielle Williams inked her way into the NCAA Division II record books as a junior in 2013 when she scored 30½ points thanks to event titles in the 100, 200 and 4×100 relay, as well as a runner-up finish in the 100 Hurdles. She set current divisional records in the 200 (22.62) and 4×100 relay (44.05), clocked the second-fastest performance in divisional history in the 100H (12.89) and notched the fifth fastest performance in the 100 (11.24).

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“I’m feeling great,” Stubbs said in a post-race interview. “I knew I had to come out and execute my race plan, and I’m happy I could do that. Now it’s time to focus on the next round and see what I can do.”

As Stubbs advances to the semifinals, he will be joined by other talented sprinters, including world-class athletes like Noah Lyles and Kenny Bednarek. The stage is set for an exciting showdown, with spots on the US Olympic team hanging in the balance.

Stubbs path to the Olympics: Top six each heat + next three fastest times to three semifinal heats, top two each semifinal, and next three fastest times advance to final. The top three in the finals on Saturday qualify for the US Olympic Team in Paris.

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Cole released a statement on his social media expressing his disappointment in the decision. He shared that he had filed an appeal that was denied and also said that his school, Norfolk State University didn’t “fully support” his effort to get the decision overturned.

With the road to the 2024 Paris Olympics begginning at the US Olympic Trials, which take place June 21-30, Kai Cole will not get an opportunity to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Today, the MEAC and Norfolk State University have released a statements on the matter. Below are the statements from the University and the conference.

The following is a statement from the Norfolk State University Athletics Department:

It is with great disappointment that Norfolk State Athletics confirms the disqualification of Kai Cole’s 100-meter time, rendering him ineligible to compete at the 2024 US Olympic Trials. This news comes as a profound blow to our athletics department, as Kai is one of our most outstanding student-athletes.

Kai had earned the well-deserved opportunity to represent his country on the international stage, showcasing his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. It is truly disheartening that he will not be able to pursue his dream of competing on one of the world’s biggest platforms this year.

We want to emphasize that Kai’s journey leading up to this moment has been marked by tireless effort and an indomitable spirit. His accomplishments While this setback is undoubtedly challenging, we have full confidence that Kai will demonstrate the same resilience and determination that has defined his career thus far. 

Kai has become one of the most decorated athletes in our program’s history during his time at Norfolk State, leading our teams to six total MEAC championships. He’s racked up nine individual conference titles, set multiple school records, and most importantly, earns consistent accolades on the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll.

As a department, Norfolk State Athletics stands firmly behind Kai during this difficult time. We will continue to provide unwavering support as he navigates these challenges and works towards his goals. Together, we will overcome this setback and emerge stronger than ever.

We extend our gratitude to Kai for his unwavering commitment and the pride he has brought to our institution. We also want to express our appreciation to the entire Norfolk State community for their ongoing support of our student-athletes. Your encouragement means the world to us and plays a significant role in shaping their journeys.

Norfolk State University and Norfolk State Athletics stands firmly behind Kai and we will continue to provide our unwavering support as he navigates these challenges.

MEAC Issues Statement on 2024 Outdoor Track and Field Championships:

The MEAC was recently informed that our multiple appeals submitted last week to have Kai Cole approved to compete at this year’s USATF Olympic Trials were denied by USATF, despite his posting an automatic qualifying time at the MEAC Outdoor Track & Field Championship.

Although the MEAC Outdoor Track and Field Championship remains an official NCAA Division-I championship event, USATF policy changes implemented this year resulted in the event not being officially sanctioned by USATF, making all competition results ineligible for Olympic Trial qualification.

We understand Kai’s frustration and took all available steps to rectify the situation so he could compete in the Olympic Trials – an opportunity he clearly deserves. The MEAC fully supports our member institutions and student-athletes as they pursue their dreams and strive for excellence.

We are disappointed by the decision from USATF and are working to ensure our track and field championships are sanctioned USATF events moving forward.

No further comments will be made regarding this matter.

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GREENSBORO — Jason Holmes stepped into the consciousness of North Carolina A&T (NC A&T) Aggie nation in the winter of 2023 when he ranked as high as 17th nationally in the 60-meter hurdles, leading him to win Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) men’s rookie athlete of the year.
 
He did not participate during the 2023 outdoor season, only to return for his sophomore indoor season and earn second-team All-American honors in the 60m, capturing the Coastal Athletic Association title after finishing third as a freshman. Now that his first official outdoor season is complete, Holmes got another rookie award from the conference. On Thursday, the CAA announced him as its male rookie of the year, completing his long-awaited acceptance of the league’s indoor and outdoor rookie honors.
 
“Hurdles are really exciting, especially when you are in a groove,” said Holmes. “When you’re in the groove and when you’re in the front, it feels like no other. It feels like nobody can touch me. I love being in those moments.”
 
Holmes took over the A&T record book in the 110H during the 2024 season. Holmes’s first hurdle into A&T history was on April 27, when he finished second at Penn Relays by running a program record of 13.43. Two weeks later, he recorded the second-fastest 110H time in program history by winning the CAA outdoor title in 13.48 at Elon University.

 
He then toppled the school record again by running a 13.40 in the quarterfinals of the NCAA East Regional at the University of Kentucky on May 24. This propelled him to his first NCAA outdoor championship meet, but he was eliminated in the national semifinals. Holmes also had an outstanding outdoor season running sprints.
 
A&T’s 4×100-meter relay team, for which Holmes usually ran the second leg, qualified for the NCAA East Regional, running a 39.24 in the quarterfinal to qualify for NCAA nationals, where Holmes, along with teammates Caleb Jackson, Aveon Reid, and Isaiah Thomas, garnered second-team All-American honors in the 4×100.
 
In addition, Jason Holmes ran a personal record 20.89 in the men’s 200 meters at the CAA outdoor championships to earn third-team All-CAA honors in the event. At the 2024 North Carolina A&T Aggie ESPY’s, Holmes was named the Tarik Cohen Male Athlete of the Year.

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WASHINGTON — With the 2024 Paris Olympics over a month away, several Howard University current and former HBCU standouts look to punch their tickets to the hottest summer sporting event of the year.
 
For the next couple weeks, more than a dozen Bison across three countries in two continents are set to compete in trials for the right to become an Olympian.
 
TRACK & FIELD
 
Four Bison are scheduled to compete in the US Track & Field Olympic Trials (June 21-30), held at historic Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore., led by two-time All-American Jessica Wright (Durham, N.C.).
 
Wright, one of the most decorated Bison in program history, made a name for herself in the long hurdles and was a member of the 4×400 relay squad. Currently, she remains the school’s 400-meter hurdles record holder (55.81).
 
Recent grad Dylan Beard (Baltimore) looks to etch himself in the record books after winning the 2024 Millrose Games with a 7.44 mark in the 110-meter hurdles. The Baltimore product wrapped up his HBCU career as a three-time All-MEAC First Team selection.
 
Noah Langford (Portsmouth, Va.) and Simone Watkins (Frisco, Texas) return to Eugene after successful runs at the 2024 NCAA Championships. Both Bison look to make Team USA after earning All-American honorable mention in the 400-meter hurdles.
 
Over the pond, newly appointed All-American Samuel Bennett (Langdon Hills, United Kingdom) sets his eyes on a trip to Paris after qualifying at the UK Championships (June 29-30). He looks to represent his country in the short hurdles (110-meter).
 
Otto Laing (Freeport, Bahamas) and Adam Musgrove (Nassau, Bahamas) finished their first season as Bison, earning All-MEAC Second Team and reaching the NCAA East First Round in Lexington, Ky. Both Bison are looking to secure spots on the Bahamian National Team (June 26-28).

 
SWIMMING & DIVING
 
In the pool, trials are underway throughout the world, including the US.
 
Thursday (June 20), recent grad Miles Simon (Atlanta) is set to compete in the US Olympic Trials, taking another shot in the 50-yard freestyle. In 2021, the Northeast Conference (NEC) Champion came up short, but his ground-breaking performance opened the door for future Bison and other swimmers looking to make the Summer Games from a Historically Black College and University (HBCU).
 
In the Bahamas (June 15-23), five Bison look to make the National Team while punching their tickets to Paris.
 
The Thompson Family, consisting of Luke-Kennedy Thompson (Nassau, Bahamas), Erald Thompson III (Nassau, Bahamas), Mark-Anthony Thompson (Nassau, Bahamas) and Zaylie-Elizabeth Thompson (Nassau, Bahamas), look to make a splash while dual-citizen Tristan Stevens (Chicago, Ill) seeks to lock up a spot for next month.
 
2024 PARIS OLYMPICS
 
The 2024 Paris Olympics is scheduled for July 26 to Aug. 11 in Paris, France.

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MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Where History is Made. It’s a phrase that embodies what Alabama State University was in the past and strives for in the future. Sophomore HBCU sprinter Jamarion Stubbs made history at the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships and placed seventh overall in the 200-meter dash and earned First Team All-American honors. Now he’s preparing for the 2024 US Olympic Team Trials.

“To be an All-American is a dream come true. I would like to thank Coach Beene, Coach Anderson, my teammates, and our athletic training staff for supporting and preparing me to achieve this honor,” Stubbs said.

The Las Vegas native turns his attention to the 2024 United States Olympic Team Trials, which is being held in Eugene, Oregon. Stubbs will compete in the 200-meter dash and have a chance to represent Team USA at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France.

As HBCU sprinter Jamarion Stubbs prepares for this monumental moment, he is thankful for the support he’s received.

“The support has been overwhelming and I’m beyond thankful,” Stubbs said. “As a kid, you always dreamed about being an Olympian and now I have a chance to achieve that. To get there though I need to continue my training routine and put myself in the best possible position to achieve my goals. Coach Beene and Coach Anderson have prepared me well and I’m excited to share this moment with them.”

For Alabama State University track coach Ritchie Beene, it’s the culmination of a vision.

“Jamarion competing in the trials is a testament to his hard work on the track and staying the course. Coach Anderson, his event coach, understands what performing at this level means to our brand,” Beene said. “Him competing in the trials was a part of my vision for the program. It’s now a reality.”

Olympic Trials Schedule (All times central) and will be broadcast on NBC, Peacock, and USA Network

Thursday, June 27
Round 1: 7:51 p.m. or 9:33 p.m.

Friday, June 28
Semifinals: 9:06 p.m. or 9:28 p.m.

Saturday, June 29
Finals: 8:49 p.m.

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COURTESY OF ALABAMA STATE ATHLETICS

EUGENE, Ore. — Sophomore sprinter Jamarion Stubbs placed seventh overall in the 200-meter dash with a time of 20.59. The Las Vegas native also earned First Team All-American honors for earning a top-eight finish.

“I would like to thank Coach Beene and Coach Anderson for believing in me and helping me prepare for this moment,” Stubbs said. “It’s an honor to be an All-American and to represent Alabama State University, the Southwestern Athletic Conference, and the HBCU community. I truly do appreciate the support and well-wishes.”

Bama State head coach Ritchie Beene is proud of Stubbs’ accomplishments and can’t wait to see what’s next for the All-American.

“This was a special year for Jamarion,” Beene said. “Coach Anderson has done an amazing job and now it’s time to turn our focus to the Olympic trials.”

Stubbs will return to Hayward Field in a couple of weeks and compete for an opportunity to represent the United States in the 200-meter dash.

COURTESY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF AR AT PINE BLUFF

EUGENE, Ore. — Caleb Snowden, a track star high jumper from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, delivered a standout performance and secured third place in the high jump event on Friday night at Hayward Field during the 2024 NCAA Outdoor National Championships. Snowden’s impressive leap of 2.23m (7-3 ¾) earned him a spot on the First-Team All-American list.
 
“I felt good competing against some of the best athletes in the country and holding my own,” said Snowden. “Being in this atmosphere and representing my school while the crowd cheered me on was terrific.”
 
Earlier this year, at the NCAA Indoor Championships, Snowden made history by becoming the first student-athlete in the program’s history to be named an All-American since joining the NCAA.
 
Additionally, Snowden is the first high jumper from a Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) to achieve a top-three position in both the NCAA Indoor and Outdoor Championships in the same year. 

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Hayles had only been running track for five years before emerging as one of the top HBCU competitors in the nation. Playing a pivotal role in elevating the North Carolina A&T 4×400 relay squad to second-team All-American status, behind a CAA-record time of 3:02.62 in 2023.

Hayles was named the CAA Men’s Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year in 2023, after earning two All-America distinctions during the 2023 outdoor season. He earned his first career individual All-American honor when he finished sixth nationally in the 400 meters to earn a spot on the first team.

In an interview with North Carolina A&T Athletics before his departure, Hayles attributed his track skill to playing various sports back in his home country of Jamacia.

“I’ve just always been an athletic person. In Jamacia, where I grew up, we always do a lot of sports, whether it’s cricket. football or soccer. We have this thing called Sports Day, and we go out and compete in different sports. You learn a lot of different sports as you’re growing up.”

Since transferring to the University of Florida in 2023, Reheem Hayles has helped the Gators to a bronze medal finish in the 4x400m relay at the SEC Outdoor Championships, crossing the finish line in 2:59.48 which stands at No. 3 on the UF All-Time Top 10 List.

The 2024 NCAA Outdoor Championship, ended up coming down to one event, the 4x400m relay. Coming into the event the Gators were in second place in the overall standings, trailing the Auburn Tigers by five points (35 to 40).

The quartet of Reheem Hayles, Jevaughn Powell, Rios Prude Jr., and Jenoah McKiver managed to finish third with a time of 2:58.98 securing the six points necessary to clinch the third national championship in a row for the University of Florida track program.

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EUGENE, Ore. — Sophomore HBCU sprinter Jamarion Stubbs continues to etch his name in the Alabama State University record books. The Las Vegas native clocked in a time of 20.15 in the 200-meter dash to win the third heat and qualify for the finals on Friday at 9:37 p.m.

“I would like to thank Coach Beene and Coach Anderson for helping me get to this point,” Stubbs said. “Excited to represent Alabama State University and the HBCU community on Friday night.”

Alabama State University head coach Ritchie Beene is pleased with Stubbs’ success.

“I am excited for Jamarion,” added Beene. “He did a good job executing his race and we are looking forward to the finals on Friday.”

Jamarion Stubbs ran the fourth fastest time in the semifinals.

Cheickna Traore (Penn State) ran a 20.02, Tarsis Origot (Alabama) finished with a 20.09, and Robert Gregory (Florida) crossed the finish line with a 20.15 (20.143 to Stubbs 20.144).

Stubbs ran a 19.95 on the NCAA regional at Kentucky and is poised to medal.

Earlier in the evening Stubbs competed in the 100-meter dash. Stubbs crossed the finish line with a time of 10.31 and was fifth in the first heat, placing 17^th overall.

Stubbs finished ahead of four student-athletes from Power 5 programs.

NCAA Championships Final Round Schedule

The 2024 NCAA outdoor track and field championships will be broadcast on ESPN2 and ESPN.

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EUGENE, Ore. — Howard University graduate Samuel Bennett (Langdon Hill, United Kingdom) ran his best race in his collegiate career while reaching the 110-meter hurdles final round at the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Ore., hosted by the University of Oregon.
 
Bennett, who entered with one of the nation’s fastest times, grabbed the final spot after Thursday’s semifinal race (13.453), edging out Ole Miss’ Ahmad Young by sixth thousandths (.006) of a second (13.459).
 
For his efforts, Samuel Bennett became the first men’s hurdler to advance to the final stage in more than 20 years and, no matter Friday’s (June 7) outcome, becomes the first men’s All-American since Bison standout and Howard Director of Track & Field David Oliver (2003).
 
Auburn’s Ja’Kobe Tharp had the fastest mark, equaling his personal best (13.18).
 
Friday’s final race is slated for 9:42 p.m. (ET) / 6:42 p.m. (PT).
 
Another notable Bison senior Noah Langford (Portsmouth, Va.) wrapped up his outstanding year, competing in the 400-meter hurdles semifinal round. The Virginia product just missed Friday’s final race, registering a 50.84 time. Despite the outcome, he earned an All-American honorable mention after finishing 17^th overall.

NCAA Championships Final Round Schedule

The 2024 NCAA outdoor track and field championships will be broadcast on ESPN2 and ESPN.

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EUGENE, Ore. — The 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships at the University of Oregon’s Historic Hayward Field will witness the dynamic duo of North Carolina A&T’s redshirt freshman Jason Holmes and A&T sophomore Thomas Smith IV. These two long-time friends, with their unique blend of talent and camaraderie, will be competing in the men’s 110-meter hurdles at 8:32 p.m. EST. 

The two North Carolina A&T men’s outdoor track and field hurdlers/sprinters appeared on A&T’s Aggie Pridecast Tuesday night to discuss their similar and somewhat different journeys to this year’s outdoor championships. Both men attended Calvert Hall College High School in Baltimore, Md. 
 
Holmes, who will also compete in the men’s 4×100-meter relay at NCAA nationals on Friday, entered high school wanting to join the Calvert sprints group. The competition proved competitive, with more than 30 athletes trying out for the group. When making the sprints group did not initially work out for Holmes, he took a chance at being a hurdler.

That group included one person — Thomas Smith IV. Smith, who had some experience in the hurdles event, began to show Holmes the ropes as much as he could, understanding he did not have any coaching experience. Despite that, Holmes quickly learned the techniques, becoming friends with Smith and his chief rival in the hurdles.

Holmes won the New Balance High Outdoor National Championship in the 110H in 2022 with a then personal-record 13.61. He also won the Maryland Private School state title in the 110H and finished second in the state at the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) meet. He won the MIAA state title in the 200 meters. 

In 2022, Smith claimed the MIAA state title in the 300H with a PR of 36.85, and he finished second to Holmes for the Maryland Private School title in the 110H. Conversely, he finished ahead of Holmes in the 110H MIAA final, running a 13.72, which was ahead of Holmes’s 13.80. 

The talented duo received many offers, including from A&T. Smith became aware that A&T approached Holmes about attending the university. Therefore, Smith became excited about the possibility of remaining teammates with Holmes when his high school coach made him aware that A&T was also interested in him. Both athletes eventually committed to A&T.

Despite a coaching change at A&T, both athletes remained steadfast in their commitment. Their mutual respect, friendship, and shared belief in the school’s potential were the driving forces that kept them on track. They understood that having a familiar face on the team would ease the transition, and they were ready to face the challenges together. 

Two years later, the stage is set. After competing for state and high school national championships, the two Marylanders are after a national championship in the 110H, proving that the hurdles “group” at Calvert Hall wasn’t too bad.

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Fayetteville, AR.- Caleb Snowden, an HBCU student-athlete from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), is a rising star in men’s NCAA track and field. His hard work and dedication have led him to the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon, June 5-8, for the second consecutive year. 

During the qualifying rounds, Caleb Snowden’s prowess was evident. He cleared all bars in his attempts and tied for the top spot with a leap of 2.20m (7-2 ½), securing his place in Eugene, Oregon. His current ranking as the top jumper in the NCAA and 10th in the US is a testament to his dominance in the sport.

“It felt good to qualify for the NCAA Outdoor Championships for the second time,” Snowden said. “After warming up and clearing the bar on my first attempt, I knew it was time to step up.”

Earlier in the season, he set a career-best school record with a leap of 7-5 at the 69th Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays. In the NCAA Indoor Championship, he cleared 2.24m (7-4 ¼) to secure second place and was honored with First Team All-America recognition.

Not only is Snowden a standout performer, but he is also a trailblazer. Hailing from Lehigh, Florida, he has become the first high jumper from a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) to claim the top spot in the NCAA Regionals for two consecutive seasons in the past decade. This is a monumental achievement, underscoring the impact of his success on the sport. 

“Competing in the regionals, wearing UAPB across my chest in Arkansas, and seeing my parents, coaches, and friends in the stands made me want to finish strong and make them proud.”

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LEXINGTON, Ky. — Howard University women’s track stamped a pair of entries to the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon at the NCAA East Preliminary Round in Lexington, Ky., hosted by the University of Kentucky.
 
Individually, graduate Simone Watkins (Frisco, Texas) had her best performance in the 400-meter hurdle quarterfinal round, clocking in at a new personal best (55.92), while locking up an automatic bid to the national stage. For her efforts, the Texas native seeks to become only the second woman in program history to earn All-American status in the long hurdles (Jessica Wright — 2022 & 2023).
 
Michigan’s Savannah Sutherland, who set a new facility record during the first round, had the fastest time with a 55.25 mark.

The 4×100 relay team of graduate Kailei Collins (Houston), junior Sherri-Anne Norton (Plantation, Fla.), and rookies Aiyana Gray-Williams (Winston-Salem, N.C.) and Mackenzie Robinson (Ypsilanti, Mich.) opened the evening with a record-setting performance, producing an AQ time of 44.26 (school record). The four Bison punched their tickets to Eugene, Oregon looking to become the first All-American 4×100 relay squad in program history.
 
South Carolina posted the fastest 4×100 time, registering at 42.46.
 
Collins also competed individually in the 100-meter (100m) and 200-meter dashes but came up short in both quarterfinal races despite a personal best in the 100m (11.35).
 
Watkins and the Howard University relay team advanced to the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships, which will be held June 5-8 in Eugene, Ore.

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LEXINGTON, Ky. | HBCU long jumper James “Jet” Brown continued his magical season for Grambling State, advancing to the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Ore. with a strong performance in the NCAA East Regional on Wednesday evening. 
 
James “Jet” Brown used a jump of 7.61m in the men’s long jump to clinch sixth place and punch his ticket to nationals. 
 
The redshirt senior from Riverdale, Ga. highlighted an HBCU track and field season that saw him claim the 2024 indoor and outdoor SWAC Titles. He set the SWAC indoor record with a leap of 7.53m. 
 
“I’m extremely proud of the work Jet and Coach Lattin have done this season,” said Coach LaMonte Vaughn Jr. “Their consistency all season has led to this breakthrough for this young man and our program. Coach Lattin has shown himself to be one of the best young jump coaches in this country with his crew of jumpers. What this means for the future of our program is immeasurable. Young people can do more than dream big here, they can live, study, and compete big here.”

 
Lawrence Lambert also represented Grambling State in the NCAA East Regional, leaping 7.04m  
  
On the women’s side, Jaime Richardson looks to secure her spot in nationals on Friday when she competes in the high jump. 

Info on 2024 NCAA outdoor track and field championships
 
The 2024 NCAA outdoor track and field championships are from Wednesday, June 5 through Saturday, June 8. Both the men’s and women’s championships are held simultaneously.

The event will be held at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. It will be the 15th time the outdoor championships have been held in Oregon and the first time since 2022.

The 2024 DI men’s and women’s outdoor track and field final site selections will be announced on Tuesday, May 28.

The top 48 declared student-athletes will be accepted into the first-round competitions for each individual event. The top 24 declared relay teams will be accepted into the first-round competitions for each relay event.

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The 2024 NCAA Division I East Preliminary Round is being held in Lexington, Kentucky, and North Carolina A&T is continuing to lead the way for HBCU track by sending two individuals and a relay team to Eugene, Oregon for the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Below is a press release from North Carolina A&T with more information.

Courtesy of North Carolina A&T Athletics

LEXINGTON, Ky. — North Carolina A&T’s men’s outdoor track and field youth is headed to the 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships after a wonderful showing on Friday during the third day of the 2024 NCAA Division I East Preliminary Round. 

Redshirt freshman Jason Holmes, sophomore Thomas Smith IV, and the Aggies 4×100-meter relay team are headed to Eugene, Ore., and the Historic Hayward Field at the University of Oregon, June 5-8, for NCAA nationals. Holmes and Smith qualified for the national semifinals in the 110-meter hurdles thanks to their respective performances in the quarterfinals on Friday. The 4×100 team also qualified for nationals.  

In qualifying for the 110H semifinals, which will take place in Oregon in June, Holmes broke the program record in the event for the second time this season by running a 13.40 (13.393), surpassing the previous program record he set at Penn Relays at 13.43. 

Holmes finished second in the third heat behind Auburn’s Ja’Kobe Tharp’s 13.24 to reach nationals as an automatic qualifier by finishing in the top 3 of his heat. Holmes finished thousands of a second ahead of LSU’s Matthew Sophia’s 13.399. Following the 13.48 Holmes ran at the 2024 Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Outdoor Track and Field Championships two weeks ago, Smith now owns the top three times in program history. 

“The biggest difference in getting down to the 13.4s is trusting my coaches and my willingness to win,” said Holmes, who did not participate as a true freshman during the 2023 outdoor season. “I want to go out there and win. I want to beat everybody. So, with good coaching, I am already aggressive; that’s been carrying me throughout the entire season. I’m trying to go 13.3, 13.2, and get even better.” 

Smith also reached nationals as an automatic qualifier after finishing third in the second heat. After running a personal-record 13.62 on Wednesday in the 110H first round, Smith clocked a 13.65 in the quarterfinals on Friday, sending him to his first NCAA outdoor championship. 

“I honestly didn’t think I would be here right now because I was going 13.8, 13.7. But I came in with an open mind of trying to win as many races as possible because I wanted to keep running. Now, I’ve got that chance.” 

Senior Aveon Reid also competed in the 110H quarterfinal on Friday but failed to qualify after finishing fifth in the third heat with a time of 13.72. It was the 14th-fastest time, putting him outside the top 12 qualifiers. But all is not lost for Reid. Holmes will have two opportunities to win an event national championship in Eugene, and Reid will join him in the event after the duo was a part of the 4×100 team that ran a season-best 39.24 in the first heat to finish third. 

Reid led off the relay before handing things over to Holmes, being challenged by a Georgia runner, and handing off to senior Caleb Jackson. Jackson turned things over to freshman Isaiah Taylor down the stretch. The Aggies finished behind Auburn’s 38.654 and Florida’s 38.656 in the first heat. A&T finished with the ninth-fastest time. Two Aggies also competed in the 400H quarterfinals. Reid placed seventh in the third heat with a time of 52.74, eliminating him from the NCAA nationals. Xzaviah Taylor did not finish. 

A&T now awaits to see if 100 hurdler Lucheyona Weaver will join them in Eugene. She will compete in the 100H quarters on Saturday at 6:15 p.m. 

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Edward Waters University assistant track & field/cross country coach Marla Lindsay has been selected to be a coach at the upcoming US Olympic Track & Field Team Trials. The trials will take place June 21-30 at Historic Hayward Field on the campus of the University of Oregon.

Lindsay received this prestigious honor thanks to one of the 2024 National Championship Mentorship Grants from USA Track & Field. Lindsay will be a part of the coaching staff of the multi-events of decathlon, heptathlon, and pentathlon.

Before coming to the D2 HBCU, Lindsay spent two seasons as an assistant coach at NCAA Division III Hollins University in Roanoke VA. At Hollins, Lindsay help produce several school record performances, while also mentoring several Old Dominion Athletic Conference top performers. 

A native of Beaufort, North Carolina, native, Lindsay starred at East Carteret High School and Western Carolina University as a sprinter and jumper. She earned East Carteret’s 1995 Athlete of the Year Award and represented the school at four NCHSAA championships. She is a 2020 inductee into East Carteret High School Hall of Fame.  The 1993 team captured the 2-A state title. Her efforts earned an athletic scholarship to NCAA Division I Western Carolina where she was a part of three Southern Conference titles in for the Catamounts. 

She graduated from Western Carolina in 2000 with a bachelor of fine arts in graphic design and has completed coursework towards a master’s in computer science from UNC Greensboro. Lindsay previously completed a stint as a mentor at the 2022 the USATF Outdoor Nationals in Eugene, Oregon.

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An Olympic trial automatic qualifying time is listed in the USATF qualifying information as “All athletes who have met the Automatic standards will be qualified for the 2024 US Olympic Team Trials, regardless of field size.”

In the 200m event, Cole clocked a time of 20.55 seconds, earning himself another MEAC championship title and surpassing the Olympic minimum mark.

An Olympic trial minimum qualifying time is listed in the USATF qualifying information as “There is a minimum standard in place for all events (with the exception of the 20km Race Walk) and fields will not be filled beyond these minimum standards. For the 20km Race Walk, fields may be filled by the Race Walk Committee for athletes who do not meet the Automatic standards.” This means the HBCU speedster will qualify if his time ranks him within the number of runners allowed in the field size.

Last year, Cole dominated the MEAC track and field championships in both the 100m and 200m events, showcasing his versatility and raw talent. As he prepares for the East Regional competition, all eyes are on Kai Cole as the Norfolk State senior continues his quest for Olympic glory.

Learn more about Kai Cole before he heads to the Olympic Trials

Kai Cole was a state 6A champion in the outdoor 200 meters as a senior in high school. Cole was also a state runner-up in the 55m and third place in the 100 as a senior and was also an all-state performer in the 55, 100, and 200 meters as a junior.

He was a Division III national champion in the 60-meter dash as a freshman. Cole clocked a PR of 6.77 seconds in the prelims at the indoor nationals during the outdoor season.

Cole was conference champion and first-team All-American in the 100-meter dash he placed eighth in the 100m at the D-III nationals with his top wind-legal times being 10.70 in the 100 and 21.33 in the 200 broke the school indoor and outdoor 200m records and the 60-meter dash record as well.

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From Alexandria to Norfolk: A Look at Virginia’s Track Legacy:

Kai Cole grew up in Alexandria, Virginia, during a highly competitive era for track and field. Virginia has a strong reputation for track and field excellence with runners such as World Champion Noah Lyles. Kai had influential figures like Greg Holloway setting high expectations. Kai found himself in a culture of intense competition that helped him become a better athlete.

A Champion Emerges at Wesley:

Kai’s journey took an unexpected turn when he enrolled at Wesley, a small school near Delaware State. During his time there, Kai won a Division III national title in the 60 meters. Winning a championship was a pivotal moment in his athletic career. This triumph showcased Kai’s undeniable talent and set the stage for the next chapter of his journey.

The Transition to Norfolk State: Cultivating a Family Bond:

After leaving Wesley, Kai searched for a new place to develop his talents and aspirations. That’s when he found Norfolk State University. It was the perfect destination for him. Norfolk offered the kind of familial support and the coaching excellence that he was looking for. Once he arrived on campus, he was welcomed by the track and field community, which made him feel at home. The Spartan culture, characterized by love, respect, and unwavering support, inspired Kai to pursue excellence.

Coach-Athlete Bond: Jerry Price and the Winning Tradition:

Kai’s success is largely attributed to his strong connection with Coach Jerry Price. Kai describes their coach-to-athlete relationship as the “best” and emphasizes the unparalleled level of support he receives from Coach Price. Thanks to their collaborative effort, Kai has won three indoor and three outdoor championships, establishing a winning tradition that will leave a lasting impact on Norfolk State’s track and field legacy.

Norfolk State’s Athletic Culture: A Tradition of Support and Unity:

Norfolk State University’s track and field culture extends beyond the current athletes. Former competitors actively engage and support the team, including alumni who were champions in previous years. They regularly attend meets, offer guidance, and even join practice sessions. This tradition of unity and support creates an environment where current athletes thrive, fostering a sense of responsibility to continue the winning legacy.

Life Beyond the Track: Embracing Norfolk’s Unique Charm:

Kai found Norfolk State University to be more than just a place to run track. The campus offers a lively and diverse community that feels like a family to him. Kai’s transition from a small, conservative PWI in Dover was transformative as he experienced the expansive and inclusive atmosphere of the HBCU community at Norfolk. Also, people who shared his background, coupled with the familial atmosphere, made Norfolk State feel like home to Kai.

Closing Thoughts: Kai Cole’s Invitation to the Spartan Experience:

Kai’s advice for prospective students echoes the sentiment of many who found their place at NSU: “Come in with an open mind, meet people from different backgrounds, and have fun.” Along with a winning tradition, unwavering support, and a vibrant community, Norfolk State offers a unique experience both on and off the track.

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Darci Khan, a small-town girl hailing from Stockbridge, Georgia, leaped from being a track star at the University of Kentucky to pursue her artistic passions at Howard University. With a concentration in painting, Khan has found a unique balance between her prowess on the track and her expressive artistry.

“I guess I’m just kidding. Track is my forte,” Khan laughed during the interview, but her track record speaks volumes. With MEAC championships under her belt, including participation in the NCAA 100m hurdle championships and the USA trials and championships, Khan has proven herself as a force to be reckoned with on the track.

What sets Khan apart is not just her speed on the track but her ability to translate emotions onto the canvas. Explaining her dual passion, Khan shared, “Track is more of my emotional outlet where I go there to enjoy myself, have fun, be around my teammates, and, of course, winning. Art is more of my political and emotional side.”

Her art focuses on painting black figures in vibrant colors, challenging conventional representations, and expressing her unique perspective. “It allows me to look at my life like, wow, I can do anything. I can be a professional track athlete. I could be a professional artist. I could do anything I really put my mind to,” Khan explained.

The interview took an unexpected turn when Khan revealed her involvement with WWE. She received an offer to join the WWE community, thanks to her best friend Maia, who had previously been part of the organization. Khan sees it as a unique opportunity to explore different facets of entertainment and media, while WWE provides valuable training and exposure.

Addressing her potential WWE journey, Khan hinted at a possible in-ring persona, saying, “Right now, I’m thinking Cobra Khan. It’s real cute and sleek, but I definitely gotta keep the Khan in there.” She expressed excitement about the learning process, media training, and attending WWE matches as part of the experience.

Reflecting on her transfer from the competitive SEC to Howard University, Darci Khan emphasized the nurturing and supportive community at Howard. She shared how the shift allowed her to grow not only as an athlete but also as an artist and individual, appreciating the diverse talents within her team.

As the interview concluded, Khan expressed gratitude for the loving community at Howard, signifying her journey from being a track superstar to an artist and potentially a WWE sensation. The HBCU community celebrates Darci Khan’s unique journey and eagerly awaits her future endeavors, both on and off the track.

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The Howard women’s 4x400m team advanced to Saturday’s final round at the Texas Relays. They finished 7th in the with a time of 3:39.87.

Howard 4x400m Relay

Howard 4x100m Relay

In the women’s 4x100m relay, Howard qualified in second place with a time of 44.78. The Lady Bison ran 44.37 finishing 4th in the final round of the Texas Relays.

Coppin State Mens 4x400m

The Coppin State represented HBCU Track and Field by advancing to the 4x400m final. Coppin State finished 9th in the prelims with a time of 3:11.26. They went on to finish 6th in the finals with a time of 3:10.22

Ja’Leak Perry– Howard

Ja’Leak Perry of Howard ran a 10.32 100m dash in the U/C Timed Final. The time helped him finish 13th out of 109 runners.

Field Events

In the men’s High Jump Caleb Snowden of UAPB finished in 1st place 2.26m (7-05). Southern’s Roman Smith tied for 5th place in Section B 2.11m (6-11). In the women’s High Jump Howard’s Nyagoa Bayak finished tied for 5th place in Section B 1.70m (5-7) and Grambling’s Jamie Richardson tied for 8th place 1.65m (5-5).

The Mens Triple Jump Section B saw three HBCU athletes finish 3rd-5th place Kyle Fisher-Howard, Kevon Hamilton- Southern, Ledamian Rowell- Jackson State

Caleb Snowden- UAPB

Roman Smith- Southern

See Results: https://texassports.com/documents/2024/3/30/TXR2024_FULL_MEET_RESULTS.pdf

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Robinson took home the Men’s indoor 60-meter title at the NCAA Division II Indoor Track and Field Championships held at the Robert W. Plaster Center in Pittsburg, KS.

Both of Tarrell Robinson’s heat times in the Men’s 60-meter dash would have been good for first as he posted a 6.64 second time in his first heat, then followed it up with a 6.61 in the final with the next closest time being 6.67 seconds from Isaac Botsio of Ghana.

His winning time of 6.61 seconds is also the 8th fastest time in NCAA Division II Track history.

Coming out of Mount Tabor High School in 2022, Robinson ranked No. 9 in the United States with a 60-meter dash time of 6.72 seconds. Now, under the tutelage of legendary HBCU track star Bershawn “Batman” Jackson, Robinson has trimmed his time in the 60m and is a National Champion in his Sophomore year.

Saint Augustine’s University has a rich track & field history, having won 39 national championships (men & women combined) on the NCAA Division II level. Terrell Robinson is adding his name to that legacy much like his coach did nearly 20 years ago.

Before Bershawn “Batman” Jackson won the gold medal in the 400-meter hurdles in the Helsinki World Championships in 2005, he won the 400-meter dash and 4×400-meter relay championships at then-Saint Augustine’s College in the 2004 NCAA Division II Championships.

Robinson’s National Championship in the indoor season should add excitement for his collegiate outdoor season and the championship events that follow.

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Danielle Williams won nine NCAA titles (eight individual, one relay), 13 CIAA championships (11 individual, two relay), earned 13 All-America honors between 2013 and 2014. She also won USTFCCCA National Women’s Indoor Track or Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year three times during that span. 

Danielle Williams inked her way into the NCAA Division II record books as a junior in 2013 when she scored 30½ points thanks to event titles in the 100, 200 and 4×100 relay, as well as a runner-up finish in the 100 Hurdles. She set current divisional records in the 200 (22.62) and 4×100 relay (44.05), clocked the second-fastest performance in divisional history in the 100H (12.89) and notched the fifth fastest performance in the 100 (11.24).

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It’s been a long-time coming for Kayla White. 

The Miami, Florida product nearly attended Alabama A&M, but her scholarship fell through and she landed in the lap of Duane Ross Sr. at North Carolina A&T. White was a breakthrough star at A&T where she became the first national champion in school history in 2019, winning the 200m at the NCAA Indoor Track Championships in Birmingham, Ala. Her time of 22.66 seconds was the fastest in the world when she ran it in March of that year. That came on the heels of her finishing second in the 60m hurdles.

Since completeing her collegiate career in 2019, White has been on a quest to prove she’s amongst the best sprinters in the country and the world. She didn’t qualify for the most recent Olympics in either event, but she’s come back as strong as ever in 2023. She got off to a fast start in April when she beat Sha’Carri Richardson at the inaugural Botswana Grand Prix with a time of 22.38 seconds. 

White made it to the semifinals of the 100m in Eugene over the weekend, but wasn’t able to get into the finals in that event. Sunday night, however, she went into the fastest race of the year and came out with a spot on the World Championships.

The World Championships will take place in Budapest, Hungary from August 19-27, 2023.

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EUGENE, Ore. — When the 2023 USA Track and Field (USATF) Outdoor trials get underway on Thursday at Heyward Stadium, Howard University will be well represented. The trio of hurdlers, Jessica Wright, Darci Khan, and Dylan Beard, will be competing to make the prestigious USA Team in their respective events.
 
Wright has followed the legacy of her mentor, former Olympic Bronze medalist and Howard University Director of Track & Field David Oliver. The 400-meter hurdler has helped put the women’s program on the map, becoming a three-time All-American during her time at The Mecca. Wright holds the distinction of winning back-to-back titles in the 400-meter hurdles at the Penn Relays, a rare feat.
 
“The Penn Relays really got my season off to a good start,” Wright said. “All of the championship and high-level meets have helped prepare me to compete on this large stage.”
 
Wright, who competed in the USATF last season, adds that she is especially motivated for this meet.

“I fell short of my goals at the (NCAA) Nationals this year. I will be competing against some of the top performers in the nation to get a spot on the team. It is my goal to make the team.”
 
Khan, a transfer from the University of Kentucky, turned heads at the Penn Relays by winning the loaded field in the 100-meter hurdles. Like her teammate, she advanced to the NCAA Finals; however, this will be her first experience at the USATF.
 
“This is a big deal, being on this large stage for the first time,” Khan said. “But I am super confident and ready to make the team. The competition we have faced this season has really prepared me for this moment.”
 
Beard will be competing in the 110-meter hurdles and he is no stranger to the USATF; however, it was back in 2017.
 
“I have learned that you have to be prepared,” he said. “It all starts with the first trials because you set the tone as you advance. I am here to make the team and this is my last time here so I plan on making the best of it.”
 
Oliver has established the Bison as a developing ground for hurdlers since returning to his alma mater in September 2017.

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Reheem Hayles made the decision to transfer to the University of Florida’s men’s track and field team.

From Jamacia, Hayles delivered straight heat this past track season for the Aggies. During the NCAA in the 400 meters at the 2023 NCAA Track and Field Championships, the sprinter finished in sixth place earning first-team All-American honors. His outstanding sixth-place finish stands as one of the most impressive achievements by a CAA competitor in an NCAA completion.

In just five years of track running, Hayles has emerged as one of the country’s top competitors, proving his growth and skill. His impact extends beyond individual events, as he played a heavy role in elevating the 4×400 relay team’s performance. Together, they achieved second-team All-American status, behind their relay CAA-record time of 3:02.62.

This achievement marks the team’s second All-American recognition, following their first-team placement in the previous season.

In an interview with North Carolina A&T Athletics, Hayles said he gained his track skill from playing in various sports back in his home country; emphasizing his ability to be a naturally born athlete.

“I’ve just always been an athletic person. In Jamacia, where I grew up, we always do a lot of sports, whether it’s cricket. football or soccer. We have this thing called Sports Day, and we go out and compete in different sports. You learn a lot of different sports as you’re growing up.”

This past season, Reheem Hayles qualified for the NCAA East Preliminary Round in not just one, but three events: the 400m, 4×400, and 200m. During the 2023 CAA outdoor meet, he came in hot with a highly competitive 45.74 in the 400m; securing the win. At the same competition, Hayles then showcased his ability as an anchor, leading the 4×100 team to a remarkable first-place finish in a swift 40.46.

Closing out the season, the Aggie sprinter’s success awarded him CAA male athlete of the year for both indoor and outdoor track.

With his incredible speed and determination, Hayles has been a standout runner at NC A&T, gaining attention and respect for his impressive achievements on the track. Now Hayles joins the Gators’ program, eager to contribute his talents and continue his pursuit of excellence.

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EAST GREENSBORO — Sophomore NC A&T men’s track and field athlete Reheem Hayles made it a clean sweep on Wednesday when the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) named him its men’s outdoor track athlete of the year. Hayles won CAA men’s indoor athlete of the year in March. 

Reheem Hayles earned two All-America distinctions during the 2023 outdoor season. He earned his first career individual All-American honor when he finished sixth nationally in the 400 meters to earn a spot on the first team. Hayles also earned second-team All-America recognition when he helped the Aggies 4×400-meter relay team reach the milestone by running a CAA-record 3:02.62. Hayles is now a three-time outdoor All-America after earning first-team honors last season with the Aggies 4×400 team. 

“My season came out okay, but not what I wanted it to be,” said Hayles about his season soon after his NCAA 400m final race. “My goals are always higher than what might be expected. But looking back, I put in a lot of hard work, and it was a pretty fun year. I had some good practices. I ran well indoors. I’ve never run that fast indoors. It was perfect. And even though I didn’t make it to indoor nationals, I made up for during outdoor.” 

In the NCAA 400m final, Hayles posted a 45.22, the second-fastest time of his career. It occurred two days after he ran a personal-best 44.81 in the semifinal. Hayles qualified for the NCAA East Preliminary Round in the 400m, 4×400 and 200m. During the 2023 CAA outdoor meet, Hayles won the 400 (45.74) and anchored the 4×100 team to a first-place finish in 40.46. 

In addition, he finished second behind teammate Shemar Chambers in the 200m (20.71). Hayles scored 20.5 points for the Aggies, helping the A&T to a third-place finish. At the 2023 CAA indoor meet, Hayles won the 400m, 4x400m and finished second in the 200m. 

“I’m happy about the season,” said Hayles. “I have to be happy about it because last year, I was nowhere near where I am now. I was here on the 4×400, but I didn’t make it past regionals in the 400 last year, so it’s something to be proud of, and it’s something to work from to get better. I believe in myself, and the work is not done. I obviously have a lot more left.” 

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AST GREENSBORO — The NC A&T women’s track and field program swept the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) track awards in 2023. Graduate sprinter Jada Griffin earned CAA women’s track indoor athlete of the year in March, and on Wednesday, the CAA named graduate hurdler Paula Salmon its CAA women’s outdoor track athlete of the year. 

The award culminates what was a superb career for Salmon, making her perhaps the best 100-meter hurdler in program history. She is unquestionably the most decorated. She earned first-team All-America honors three weeks ago in the 100H at the 2023 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Austin, Texas, by finishing eighth in 12.92. 

The award culminates what was a superb career for Salmon, making her perhaps the best 100-meter hurdler in program history. She is unquestionably the most decorated. She earned first-team All-America honors three weeks ago in the 100H at the 2023 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Austin, Texas, by finishing eighth in 12.92. 

It made her the first NC A&T women’s athlete to earn two first-team All-America honors in the 100H after she finished fourth in 2022. She is also the only Aggie to have three All-America accolades in the event after she earned second-team recognition in 2021. 

In advancing to NCAA nationals, Salmon became only the second CAA woman in conference history to qualify for nationals in the 100H. She is the first in conference history to qualify for the final. In her first and only season competing in the CAA, she broke the 100H conference record, becoming the first woman to run under 13 seconds in CAA history with a wind-legal 12.91. 

Salmon ran under 13 seconds in all four of her NCAA postseason races, including twice at the NCAA East Preliminary Round and twice at NCAA nationals. In addition, Salmon broke the CAA outdoor championship meet record by winning the conference event title in 13.25. Salmon also helped A&T’s 4×100-meter relay team finish second at the CAA outdoor championships (45.12). Salmon holds the school record in the 60H (12.63). 

“It surprised me at first because I didn’t think I had an athlete of the year type season,” said Salmon. “But I had to realize the CAA is a different platform than NCAA. From an NCAA standard, I don’t think my season was that good because my goal for the past two years has been to win a national title. 

But in the eyes of the CAA, I broke the (100H) record three times, I was a regional qualifier and a national qualifier, and I scored points at an NCAA national meet. I wanted bigger and better than the CAA, but it’s great to represent the CAA as a champion. It is great to represent the CAA at nationals, and the award means a lot because now I have set the pace for the next CAA hurdler to beat my records and go faster and beyond my talents.”

Salmon’s talents have meant a lot to NC A&T. Salmon won 100H titles in the CAA and the Big South, and her highest finish in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) was second in 2021. In addition to being a three-time outdoor All-America in the 100H, she is a two-time indoor All-America in the 60H. She also has a MEAC indoor title in the high jump. 

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Four student-athletes received All-American honors for their performances. Arguably the best performance came in men’s 4x100m as Alabama State finished 5th.

Check out our photo gallery by Dominique Monday.

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AUSTIN, TEXAS – Junior Caleb Snowden’s historic season ends in Austin, Texas after finishing 11th in the high jump during day three of the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships on the University of Texas campus.

Snowden cleared 2.16m/7-1 on his first jump which eventually landed him in the 11th spot of the event, claiming All-America Honors for the first time in school history.

Caleb Snowden approaches the high jump in one of his first attempts on Friday evening. Photo: Dominique Monday

Chadrick Williams Finishes Season as 2nd Team All-American

Courtesy: Texas Southern Athletics

AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Southern men’s track & field standout Chadrick Williams wrapped up his season ranked 16th nationally and earned second-team All-American honors at the NCAA Outdoor Championships.
 
Williams, a native of Kingston, Jamaica who was competing in his first-ever trip to nationals, jumped 50-0-¾ feet on his first attempt. He improved by nine inches on his second jump after recording a mark of 50-9¼ feet. On his final attempt, Williams once again improved his mark as he logged a length of 50-10¾.

Williams wrapped up the season ranked 16th and earned second-team All-America recognition as a result of finishing in the top 16. He was only the third TSU men’s track & field student-athlete to earn a trip to the national meet since 2012.

Chadrick Williams after his second attempt in the triple jump. Photo: Dominique Monday

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That reality was quite apparent at the NCAA Div. I Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Austin, Texas over the weekend.

In 2022 with Ross at the helm, the A&T men finished tied ninth (with Texas Tech) and the Aggie women finished tied 23^rd (with South Carolina) outdoors. A year earlier in 2021, the A&T men and women had top five finishes.

The Lady Aggies tied for fourth (with Alabama) while the men finished solo third. Over that span, A&T runners won national titles in the men’s 400 meters and 4×400 meter relay and women’s titles in the 100 and 200 meters. 

There were no such high finishes this time around. 

HBCU finishes at 2023 NCAA Div. I Track Outdoors

The SWAC champion Alabama State men finished with four points, the highest point total for any HBCU in Austin. The Hornets’ men’s 4×100 team placed fifth in the finals in a time of 38.79 seconds to earn the points. LSU, with former NC A&T sprinter/long jumper Brandon Hicklin running the first leg, won the event in 38.05. The top six teams finished the event in under 39.0 seconds.

The Alabama State team included Victor Smith, Matthew Clarke, Justus Trainer, Jamarion Stubbs and alternate Kendrick Winfield. The Hornets are led by decorated head coach Ritchie Beene. The four points tied Alabama State with seven other teams for 47th in the men’s field.

Texas won the women’s title with 83 points, easily outdistancing second-place Florida (51 points). Florida repeated as men’s champ with 57 points. Arkansas was second with 53 points.

Other HBCU finishes

NC A&T grad senior Paula Salmon finished eighth behind champion Ackera Nugent (12.25) of Arkansas in the 100 meter hurdles. Salmon finished in 12.92 seconds. Salmon’s was the only point scored by the Aggie women who finished tied for 63^rd with eight other teams.

NC A&T also had grad senior Jada Griffin in the 400 meters. Griffin did not make the finals. 

For the NC A&T men, junior quartermiler Reheem Hayles, after running a personal best 44.81 in the semifinals, ran 45.22 to grab sixth place and garner three points in the men’s 400 meters. Florida’s Emmanuel Bamidele won the event in 44.24. 

The three points tied the Aggies for 55^th with three others — Navy, SE Louisiana and Northern Arizona.

Howard’s Jessica Wright (400 meter hurdles) and Darci Khan (100 meter hurdles) did not reach the finals. Arkansas-Pine Bluff’s Caleb Snowden finished 11th in the high jump. Sherman Hawkins of Jackson State did not clear a height in the event.

Former NC A&T athletes at Div. I Track Outdoors

Hicklin helped LSU claim first place (and 10 points) in the 4×100 meter relay and also finished eighth in the long jump to garner another point for LSU. 

The LSU men finished fourth behind repeat national champion Florida with 43 points. 

Rasheem Brown ran the 110 hurdles last season for A&T and did the same for Tennessee this season. He finished eighth in the final in 13.50 seconds to score a single point for the Vols. Tennessee finished tied for 22^nd with Oklahoma and Texas A&M with 11 points.

Former standout NC A&T sprinter Javonte Harding, who followed former coach Ross to Tennessee, did not score any points. He did not make the 100 finals and finished ninth in the 200 meter finals. He also ran for the Vols 4×100 relay team that did not qualify for the finals.

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AUSTIN, TEXAS — If Paula Salmon never took another step on a track for North Carolina A&T after the 2022 outdoor track and field season, it would not have affected her legacy as a star athlete at the HBCU on the east side of Greensboro.

However, after her showing during the 2023 track and field postseason, including her performance Saturday night at the 2023 NCAA Track and Field Championships at Mike A. Myers Stadium at the University of Texas, her legacy grew among the A&T track and field greats before her.

Salmon finished eighth in the 100-meter hurdle NCAA women’s final on the fourth and final day of NCAA nationals, the second day for the ladies. She ran a 12.92 to earn first-team All-American honors. Salmon became the first female Aggie in program history to earn two first-team All-American honors in the 100H event. 

In addition, she is the first three-time All-American 100 hurdler after earning second-team honors in 2021. After not running under 13 seconds all season, Salmon clocked in under 13 seconds in all four of her NCAA postseason races.   

By deciding to don the A and T interlock one more time as a student-athlete in 2023, she stands alone among outstanding A&T hurdlers such as Loreal Smith, a 2009 first-team All-American, who competed at the 2009 and 2011 USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, and at the 2012 Olympic Trials.  

Kayla White started her collegiate career as a hurdler but gained stardom as the Aggies’ first-ever — men or women — event national champion when she won the 200 meters at the 2019 NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships. 

She would also become the first Aggie to win an NCAA national player or athlete of the year honor when she became NCAA Women’s Track Athlete of the Year in 2019. Madeleine Akobundu and TeJyrica Robinson earned first-team All-America accolades in the 100H in 2021. 

“I honestly did not know I was the first to do it since Kayla White was before me and since Maddie and T were before me,” said Salmon. “But to actually realize it, that’s an accomplishment, and I’m happy to be a part of Aggie history.” 

Also, by deciding to stay even though a new head coach arrived at North Carolina A&T in 2022-23, the Aggies kept a veteran presence within a program that had become accustomed to success. It gave the new director of track and field programs, Allen Johnson, an additional motivating voice.  

“I have so much love for the school,” said Salmon. “I decided to stay because I wanted to add more to Aggie Nation and keep the Aggies on the map. I proved that I could still make it happen no matter the coach.”   

Like the great hurdlers before her, Salmon will leave A&T as a multiple threat on the track and field surface. Smith was a conference champion in the 60m, 400H and 4×100. Akobundu was a conference champion in the long jump, and of course, White became a national championship sprinter. Salmon was a conference indoor champion in the high jump. 

But even with all of Salmon’s success and first-time feats, she persevered to solidify her legacy. 

“The journey starting in September was good, and then I came into December, and it was a little rough,” said Salmon. I doubted myself a lot. I was going through the motion in every meet and just accepted my results. I wanted more, so every day at practice, I decided to block out all the negativity and distractions. I just went out there, worked hard, and did what I had to, and it showed on the track.” 

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AUSTIN, TEXAS — In a 4×400-meter relay race in New York in 2018, 16-year-old Reheem Hayles competed in the sport of track and field for the first time. The Jamaican native took the baton at city championships when his team was in fifth place and gained enough ground during his split to help his team finish second. Only five years later, he stood on a podium with the number six underneath his feet, having finished sixth in the NCAA in the 400 meters at the 2023 NCAA Track and Field Championships hosted by the University of Texas at Mike A. Myers Stadium on Friday night for the North Carolina A&T outdoor men’s track and field program. 

During the third day of the NCAA Track and Field Championships, the second and final day for the male athletes, Hayles recorded a 45.22 in the NCAA final, his second-fastest time in the event during his career. It came two days after he posted a career-best 44.81 in the semifinals. Hayles earned first-team All-American honors with his sixth-place finish. He is now a two-time first-team All-American after earning the accolade as a 4×400-meter relay participant in last year’s championships. 

“I was not doing any kind of track before then,” said Hayles during an interview earlier this year. “I’ve just always been an athletic person. In Jamaica, where I grew up, we always do a lot of sports, whether it’s cricket or football — you guys call it soccer — or track. We have this thing called Sports Day, and we go out and compete in different sports. You learn a lot of different sports as you’re growing up.”

Within two years of starting his journey in track and field, Hayles became one of the most sought-after athletes in the country, making him one of the most highly-ranked athletes to ever sign with the Aggies track and field programs. When he arrived at North Carolina A&T, the Aggies’ established 400m program featured future Olympians Trevor Stewart and Randolph Ross, Jr. 

But Stewart would exhaust his eligibility, and Ross Jr. transferred, leaving the one-lap event in the hands of Reheem Hayles and teammate Shemar Chambers. 

“It was a great opportunity, and I’m always looking for new opportunities such as this one,” said Hayles about what became his new role in 2023. “It put me in a position where I had no choice but to be good. But you know, that’s the goal each time you go out there. It is to be better.”

Reheem Hayles became one of the best 400m runners in the country as a sophomore. He reached his personal best twice during the season and won the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) indoor and outdoor titles in the 400m. His sixth-place finish on Friday is tied for the highest finish by a CAA competitor since 2013. 

“I felt good in the warmups,” said Hayles after his 400m run on Friday. “I felt fast. I felt smooth. Everything felt good. While I was running, I could see everything that was happening. After my first 200, I thought everything was good. But I was not committed enough over the last 200. 

If I were, it would have made the race a better race. But overall, it was a solid race. It was my second-fastest time, so overall, I really don’t have a problem with it.”

North Carolina A&T director of track and field, Allen Johnson, said Hayles handled his new time in the spotlight well because he was laser-focused on his preparation and execution. Hayles, who has at least two years of eligibility remaining, described the season as fun even though part of him believes he can do much better than sixth place in the nation. 

But finishing sixth nationally is a pretty impressive feat for a person who only decided five years ago to get handed a baton. 

 “I’m not mad at all,” said Hayles. After the race, I thought I could have done it. I could have done it. But I’m proud of myself. Looking back on last year, I have to be proud. I have no choice but to be proud of myself and the work I’ve been putting in. But the work is not done.”

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AUSTIN, Texas — Alabama State University men’s 4x100m relay team became the first relay in school history to make the National Championships Finals on the opening day of the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field National Championships,

Victor Smith, Matthew Clarke, Justus Trainer, Jamarion Stubbs, alt Kendrick Winfield finished third in their heat and sixth overall clocking new school record time of 38.56 to move on to the finals.

The 4x400m relay team consisting of Kendrick Winfield, Daquan Tate, Khabeeba Mills, Joshua Knox and alternate Jamarion Stubbs finished ninth in their heat where they fell short of qualifying for the finals with a time of 3:08.75

The Hornets men’s track team were one-of-seven teams in the East to have both relays team qualify. North Florida’s Hodges Stadium is the stadium that the 2015 ASU women’s track and field team qualified to compete for in national championships.

The Hornets will be back on the track Friday June 9 at 8:02 p.m. (CT) as they look to bring home a National Championship title to Montgomery. 

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AUSTIN, TEXAS — Sophomore Reheem Hayles moved toward first-team All-American status for the second time in his career. During the first day of competition for the men at the 2023 NCAA Track and Field Championships at the University of Texas’s Mike A. Myers Stadium on Wednesday, Hayles qualified for the 400 meters NCAA final. 

Reheem Hayles made it to his first career NCAA outdoor championship final as an individual in style. He ran a personal-best 44.81 in the third heat of the semifinals to finish third in the race with the fifth-fastest qualifying time by two/one-thousandths of a second as Hayles was clocked at 44.807 officially, and Arizona State’s Dubem Nwachukwu came in at 44.805. 

The top two finishers in the three heats automatically make it to the finals, followed by the next three fastest times. Hayles had the fastest time among the three runners who had to qualify based on time. Friday’s 400m final starts at 10:02 p.m., Eastern Standard Time (EST). 

If Hayles finishes in the top-8, he will be deemed a first-team All-American by the United States Track and Field Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA). Hayles earned first-team All-America honors last season as an Aggies 4×400-meter relay team member. 

In his heat, Hayles had to compete against Arizona State’s Justin Robinson, who ran a 44.65 at the 2023 NCAA Division West Preliminary Round quarterfinal, and Florida’s Emmanuel Bamidele, who came into the race with a personal-best 44.71 performed at the 2023 SEC Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Hayles’ personal record coming into the meet was 45.47. 

But on Wednesday, Hayles led around the 200-meter mark as the runners started to make up the stagger. But as Hayles came down the straightaway, Robinson and Bamidele started to pull away from him before Hayles made one final push to stay competitive with the duo before finishing third. In doing so, Hayles took more than half a second off his PR. 

Also, in Wednesday’s third 400m heat, Hayles’ junior teammate Shemar Chambers failed to qualify for Friday’s final. Chambers had one of his best times this season despite not making the final. Chambers ran under 46 seconds for the fifth time this season, finishing his heat in 45.93. He finished 18th overall and will earn honorable mention All-America accolades in the event this season. 

Chambers saw his season end in Wednesday’s final event — the 4×400. Despite the North Carolina A&T team of junior Caleb Jackson, Chambers, Hayles and graduate Ryan Saint-Germain running a 3:02.62 PR, the foursome finished fifth in the third heat for the 13th fastest time. The top teams from the three heats and the following three fastest times qualified for the 4×400 final. 

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