Day one of the Atlantic Sun Conference Outdoor Championships saw impressive performances from Eastern Kentucky University’s athletes, with three Colonels clinching medals at the Richard Martin Jr. Track and Bill Stephens Soccer Complex, hosted by Central Arkansas.
Men and Women Make Their Mark
The men’s team showcased their prowess, currently tied with North Florida for third place with 24 points. Meanwhile, the women’s team holds a solid fourth place with 11 points after the first day’s events.
Golden Moments
John Ukomadu seized a gold medal in the high jump, marking the pinnacle of his college career with a season-best jump of 2.00m. This victory follows Joshua Moore’s gold medal win at the 2024 ASUN Indoor Championships, ensuring EKU’s continued dominance in this event.
Silver and Bronze Standouts
Enock Kipchumba clinched a silver medal in the 10,000 meters, clocking in at 30:28.23, securing his second consecutive ASUN medal in the event outdoors. Keeton Thornsberry achieved a personal best with a time of 30:32.78, earning a bronze medal and adding to the Colonels’ medal tally.
Women’s Contributions
Senda Garma kicked off the scoring for the EKU women’s team in the hammer throw, finishing fourth with a throw of 53.36m. Sonia Koech and Saskia Pingpank achieved personal-best times in the 10,000 meters, contributing crucial points to the Maroon and White. Lucy Thornton also posted a personal best in the 10K event.
Dominance in 1,500 Meters
Five Colonels secured spots in the finals for the men’s 1,500 meters, with Taha Er Raouy leading the charge and setting a facility record with a time of 3:46.56. Jan Badia, Hakim Abouzouhir, Joan Tapias, and Aniol Borras also showcased their talent, positioning themselves for success in the upcoming finals.
Looking Ahead
The EKU Colonels are poised for another day of intense competition at the ASUN Outdoor Championships, scheduled to continue tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. ET. Stay tuned as the athletes aim to build on their impressive performances and capture more medals for the Maroon and White.
