Howard track makes a strong impression

GAINESVILLE, Fla. & WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – Howard University men’s and women’s track & field program displayed strong performances on Day One of the Pepsi Florida Relays, hosted by the Gators, and Colonial Relays, hosted by William & Mary.

PEPSI FLORIDA RELAYS

In the Sunshine State, senior Jessica Wright (Durham, N.C.) put on a show. The North Carolina native competed in the 400-meter hurdles where she finished with a new school record of 56.32, shattering her previous mark set last week at the Texas Relays (57.36).

For her efforts, she qualified for the 2022 USA Championships for an opportunity to earn a spot on the 2022 World Championships Team. Fellow classmate Jessika Gbai (Philadelphia) took part in the 200-meter dash, placing fourth overall with the ninth-fastest time in the nation (23.12).

On the men’s side, graduate Dylan Beard (Severn, Md.) and senior Jermanie Byrd (Miami) raced in the 200-meter dash, clocking in at 21.57 and 22.23, respectively.

Senior Corinthians Payne (Apopka, Fla.) ran the 400-meter hurdles, recording a time of 53.05.

COLONIAL RELAYS

In Williamsburg, senior Kennedy Lewis (Atlanta) won the 200-meter dash with a new personal best (24.33). Third-year Bison De’ja Dade (Desoto, Texas) competed in the 100-meter dash, producing a 12.20 mark, earning her fourth place overall.

Fellow classmate Monika Williams (Denver) took part in the 400-meter hurdles where she finished fifth, registering a 1:03.80 time. For the men, junior Cameron Kee (Lawnside, N.J.) placed seventh in the 400-meter hurdles with a 55.03 mark.

In the men’s field events, newcomer Kyle Fisher leaped over 21 feet in the long jump, earning him fifth overall.

Featured Image: Howard University senior Jessica Wright qualifies for the 2022 USA Championships. Photo courtesy of Howard University