GU Indoor Track and Field Delivers Strong Performances at Finals Week Invitational
DAVENPORT, Iowa – The Graceland University men's and women's indoor track and field teams competed in the Finals Week Invitational hosted by St. Ambrose University, turning in solid performances across multiple events. Facing a competitive field of NAIA and NCAA athletes, the Yellowjackets demonstrated resilience and potential as they continue to build momentum in the indoor season.
Men's Results
The Graceland men's team saw success in the sprint and middle-distance events.
In the 60-meter dash, the top Graceland sprinter clocked a time of 7.31 seconds, narrowly missing advancement to the finals. The Yellowjackets also competed in the 200-meter dash, with their fastest runner posting a time of 23.64 seconds, securing a top-20 finish in a highly competitive field.
In the middle-distance events, Graceland's top performance came in the 400-meter dash, where their lead runner completed the race in 53.68 seconds, placing within the top 15. The team also showed depth in the 800-meter run, with a season-best time of 2:08.05.
The field events provided additional highlights, with a top Graceland athlete recording a mark of 6.01 meters (19'8.75") in the long jump, finishing in the top 20. In the throwing events, Graceland's standout performer in the shot put achieved a best throw of 10.95 meters (35'11.25"), placing 31st in a deep field of competitors.
The Yellowjackets also competed in the 4x400-meter relay, finishing with a time of 3:55.65, a performance they aim to improve upon in upcoming meets.
Women's Results
The Graceland women's team had a strong showing in the sprinting and jumping events.
In the 60-meter dash, the top Graceland finisher recorded a time of 8.63 seconds, narrowly missing qualification for the finals. The Yellowjackets had notable performances in the 200-meter dash, with their fastest runner clocking 29.28 seconds, securing a top-15 finish.
In the 400 meters, Graceland's top competitor crossed the line in 1:03.95, earning second place and valuable points for the team. The middle-distance events saw a standout performance in the 800-meter run, where a Graceland athlete finished with a strong time of 2:31.98, placing first among NAIA competitors.
In field events, Graceland's standout performance came in the long jump, with the top jumper reaching 4.98 meters (16'4.25"), securing a runner-up finish. The team also saw success in the triple jump, with their top athlete recording a best mark of 10.50 meters (34'5.50"), which earned first place in the competition.
The women's 4x400-meter relay team performed well, finishing with a time of 4:19.86, placing second in a highly contested event.
Coach's Reflection
Graceland's coaching staff praised the efforts of both teams, emphasizing the growth and progress made throughout the indoor season. The performances in Davenport provided valuable insights into areas for improvement, with a focus on refining technique and consistency in the upcoming meets.
Looking Ahead
The Yellowjackets will take a break for the holiday season before returning to action on Saturday, January 11, at the Battle of the Hive hosted by St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa.
For more information on Graceland men's and women's indoor track and field, and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.