Chambana Sun

The Illinois men's and women's track and field teams are set to commence their outdoor season at the Hurricane Invitational in Coral Gables, Florida, from March 15-16. This event marks the beginning of a new chapter following their recent indoor season.

During the NCAA Indoor Championships, senior Aiden Ouimet achieved a significant milestone by recording the highest-ever finish for an Illinois athlete in the heptathlon, securing fourth place. "He was the first All-American – and the second in school history – in the event since Jonathan Wells did so in 2017."

In addition to Ouimet's achievement, five Illini women earned All-America honors, tying a program record initially set in 1995. The honorees include juniors Bara Sajdokova (fifth, high jump), Tori Thomas (sixth, pole vault), Darja Sopova (sixth, triple jump), freshman Elizabeth Ndudi (seventh, long jump), and redshirt junior Rose Yeboah (eighth, high jump). These accomplishments placed Illinois 19th with 12.5 points—their highest finish since 2013.

Ouimet contributed five points individually for a 38th-place finish on the men's side—the best result since placing 30th in 2017.

As they transition to outdoor competitions, athletes like freshman javelin thrower Eleftherios Kontonikola and junior hammer thrower Phethisang Makhethe will join their teammates in showcasing their skills. Kontonikola missed last year due to injury but is ready to compete this season. Meanwhile, Makhethe transferred from New Mexico State and will make her debut for Illinois this weekend.