Keiser Men’s Track Squad Secures Top Finishes and Personal Records in Gainesville
The Keiser University men’s track team delivered a strong performance in Gainesville on Friday, athletes secured multiple top-five finishes at the RADD Sports Invitational. The Seahawks utilized the two-day meet to establish personal bests, this event marks a critical step toward national qualification.
Early Season Progress Signals Shift for Seahawks Program
Keiser University has historically relied on speed events like relays to score points, the program is currently undergoing a strategic shift toward field events and distance running. This transformation was evident during the recent competition in Alachua County, the team is building momentum following the season opener at the Jimmy Carnes Invitational. Coaches are focused on securing qualifying marks for the NAIA Indoor National Championships, these early meets provide essential benchmarks against conference rivals like Southeastern and St. Thomas. The ability to score across diverse events indicates a maturing roster, the program aims to move beyond regional prominence into national contention.
Field Athletes and Distance Runners Power Through Competition
Casey Wood anchored the field events with a standout performance in the shot put, he claimed second place with a throw of 14.64 meters. Christian Nicolas followed closely in fourth place with a personal record of 14.28 meters, the pair demonstrated significant depth in the throwing lineup. Wood also competed in the weight throw, he finished tenth overall while setting another personal best of 13.64 meters. Distance runners also contributed heavily to the team score, Jesse Songo earned a fifth-place finish in the 3000m race with a time of 8:36.77.
Relay Teams and Jumpers Add to Scoreboard
Success continued on the track with the Distance Medley Relay squad, the team of Rivadulla, De Nicola, Songo, and Vecchio crossed the line in fourth place with a time of 10:42.28. Adrian Rivadulla also shined individually in the 1000m run, he finished fourth with a time of 2:30.12. Hugo Biget added points in the long jump, he recorded a mark of 7.06 meters to secure fifth place overall.
Strong Start Positions Team for Conference Championship Contention
These results suggest Keiser is prepared to challenge for a top spot in the Sun Conference, the emergence of a balanced roster aids in recruiting efforts. Consistent performances at high-profile venues help the program attract international talent, the coaching staff now has clear data to refine training regimens. Athletes will return to Gainesville later this month, they aim to finalize qualifying standards before championship season begins.
The Seahawks will compete next at the Legends of Alachua County Invitational on January 31, the team hopes to maintain their current momentum. Officials are optimistic about the potential for a record number of national qualifiers this season.
