Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University hosted the first day of the annual Big Meet, featuring nearly 2,000 athletes from approximately 80 schools. The event took place at the Kelly Family Sports Center in Allendale, Michigan.

Michael McNeil was notable in the men's 60m dash, advancing to the finals and finishing sixth with a time of 6.90 seconds. Joshua Hurt also reached the finals in the 60m hurdles, finishing sixth with a time of 8.07 seconds.

In women's events, Claire Neumann set a personal best in the 200m with a time of 24.82 seconds, placing her tenth in GVSU history. Addison Washler made an impressive debut in the women's 400m, qualifying for national competition with a time of 56.58 seconds.

The men's team excelled in relays and distance events. Myles Rhodes set a new GVSU record in the men's 400m with a time of 47.62 seconds, while Zach Pray tied his personal best at second place with a time of 47.76 seconds.

Owen Westerkamp achieved a personal best in the men's mile invite at 4:02.73 minutes, moving up to number two all-time for GVSU records.

In field events, Alaina Diaz performed well in long jump with a distance of 5.88 meters (19-3.5), securing second place.

Myles Kerner broke his own shot put record at Kelly Family Sports Center with a throw measuring 19.69 meters (64-7.25), marking it as number one in NCAA Division II.

The Big Meet will continue on Saturday morning at Kelly Family Sports Center where tickets are available for purchase except for Grand Valley State students who can attend free with valid ID.