The Kentucky Track and Field men’s program opened day one of the NCAA Division I East First Rounds at the Outdoor Track and Field Facility, marking the first time the event has been held in the Bluegrass since 2017. Despite numerous schedule changes, the Wildcats performed admirably, punching two tickets to Eugene in the men’s pole vault and qualifying three runners for Friday’s quarterfinals.
Pole Vault Success
Seniors Keaton Daniel and Dalton Shepler secured their spots at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon. Shepler achieved a personal best, clearing 17’5.50”/5.32 meters, finishing 11th and tying for third on the UK all-time performers list. This marks Shepler’s first qualification for the outdoor championship meet.
Daniel tied for the win in the event, clearing 17’9.25”/5.42 meters, marking his third time qualifying for the championship meet.
Track Event Highlights
110m Hurdles: Freshman Alexander Chukwukelu finished 15th overall, earning an automatic qualifier to the quarterfinals with a time of 13.84 seconds (+0.8). He is one of only three freshmen advancing to the next round.
100m Dash: Junior Clinton Muunga qualified on time, posting a time of 10.34 seconds (-0.9).
200m Dash: Graduate student Kennedy Lightner earned an automatic qualifier to Friday’s quarterfinals with a time of 20.35 seconds (-1.2).
Upcoming Events
The UKTF women will commence their postseason tomorrow on an adjusted schedule. For updates and schedule changes, live results, and broadcast information, visit the following links:
Recap of Wednesday’s Performances
Sprints & Hurdles:
- 110m Hurdles: Freshman Alexander Chukwukelu secured a spot in the quarterfinals, clocking in at 13.84 seconds (+0.8).
- 100m Dash: Junior Clinton Muunga advanced with a time of 10.34 seconds (-0.9).
- 200m Dash: Graduate student Kennedy Lightner moved on to the quarterfinals with a time of 20.35 seconds (-1.2).
Jumps & Throws:
- Pole Vault:
- Dalton Shepler: Cleared a personal best of 17’5.50”/5.32 meters, finishing 11th and tying for third on the UK all-time performers list.
- Keaton Daniel: Cleared 17’9.25”/5.42 meters, tying for the win and marking his third qualification for the championship meet.
The Wildcats demonstrated resilience and skill on the first day, setting the stage for more strong performances as the NCAA East First Rounds continue.
