Season Update

We have now reached the middle of April. We have learned a lot about some of the premier teams in Collegiate track and field but there are still some teams who have not displayed their hand. The Florida and Texas Relays have past, both had there ups and downs. Let's review some of the season's best.


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SPRINTER OF THE SEASON (so far)

Senior Demetrius Pinder of Texas A&M is lighting the track on fire. A positive representative of his country, the Bahamas, Pinder has taken over as the go to guy for Texas A&M in the sprints. Earlier in the season Pinder defeated 400 star Jeremy Wariner in the 200 that shows he will be competitive this summer at the world championships in Daegu. Pinder's time of 20.54 is currently ranked number 2 in the country. Pinder is also ranked number 2 in the country in the 400 with a time of 45.06 behind teammate Tabarie Henry at 44.83. Pinder also anchored the Texas A&M 4X400 meter relay to a time of 3:00.45 a new Texas Relay's record.

Honorable Mention: Jeff Demps


FIELD ATHLETE OF THE SEASON (so far)

Ngonidzashe Makusha of Florida State has been a sensational long jumper all season. Makusha claimed the NCAA Indoor title over Will Claye of the University of Florida and has not looked back. Makusha set a Texas Relay's record last weekend with a winning mark of 27'6.75. His mark beat his competition by more than a foot. Makusha has the same margin over the country as he is currently ranked number 1. Makusha is huge in the team battle for Florida State. Keep your eye on him this outdoor season.


DISTANCE RUNNER OF THE SEASON (so far)

Ciaran O'Lionaird a senior from Florida State is getting his season off to a great start. O'Lionaird a transfer from the University of Michigan leads the NCAA in the 1,500 with a time of 3:41.02. O'Lionarid is also ranked number 2 in the 10,000 with a time of 28:32.30. With the ACC Championships around the corner. Expect O'Lionarid to be on the top of the podium often.


FRESHMAN OF THE SEASON (so far)

Prezel Hardy of Texas A&M was the number 1 sprinting recruit last season. Hardy has not disappointed for A&M this season. Hardy currently ranks 6th in the country and tied with another freshman. However Hardy is having a much better 200 meter outdoor season currently ranked number 9 with a personal best of 20.74. Hardy was also given the tough task of anchoring the 4x100 relay that is currently ranked number 1 clocking in at 38.71 to win the Texas Relay's title. Hardy definitely has a bright future and is an athlete to watch out for.


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