Holland Reporter

Day one of the Grand Valley State University (GVSU) track and field team's three-day, four-meet weekend has concluded. The event saw four Lakers achieve top 10 placements in GVSU's all-time outdoor record book.

The Bobcat Invitational at Texas State University in San Marcos showcased various GVSU athletes. Mason Floria competed in the decathlon, placing in the top ten for three events. Erika Beistle, known for her prowess in shot put and discus, achieved the second-best discus mark of the day at 49.40m, ranking her second in NCAA Division II. Nathan Spitzley and James Mackey Jr. also made notable throws in the men’s discus. Caleb Taylor earned a third-place long jump mark at 6.82m.

In running events, Dominic Downes finished fourth in the men's 110m hurdles with a time of 14.65. Jayla Graham placed 10th in the women's 100m, while Jake Machiniak secured a win in the men's 100m with a 10.67 finish. Addison Washler excelled in the women's 800m, coming first among 69 athletes and earning a spot in NCAA Division II standings.

Day two will feature 16 events with Mason Floria continuing in the decathlon. Various field events are scheduled throughout the day, with notable athletes such as Kennedy Jackson, Jaivon Harrison, and Luke Jelderks.

Meanwhile, the Texas Relays at the University of Texas in Austin saw Shelby Ulven compete in the women’s hammer throw, achieving 12th place overall. Brooke Barkocy, Ashtyn Gluck, and Lance Riddle participated in the 400m hurdles, with Barkocy finishing second in her heat.

The WashU Distance Carnival in St. Louis experienced issues with result postings for initial events. However, GVSU is prepared to compete in various track events on day two, with Tyler Heath and Drennan Akins among the participants.

At the Raleigh Relays at North Carolina State University, Pat Lyell, Owen Westerkamp, and Koby Fraaza represented GVSU. Fraaza achieved a personal-best in the men's 5000m, placing him fourth in the university's record book.

Updates and recaps will continue to be posted on gvsulakers.com, with additional information available via @GVSUXCTF on Instagram and X.