Chambana Sun

The track and field teams from the University of Illinois had a notable first day at the Tyson Invitational held at Randal Tyson Track Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Both the women's and men's teams made significant achievements.

Phethisang Makhethe excelled in the weight throw event, breaking her own school record with a throw of 23.11 meters (75-10). This mark is currently the third-best in the nation and second in the Big Ten conference. Makhethe has now surpassed the 23-meter mark three times this season, making her one of only three women to achieve this feat.

Asia Thomas also set a new school record in the 60m dash with a time of 7.22 seconds. This marks her second consecutive weekend breaking her own record, placing her 13th nationally and fourth within the Big Ten.

Cody Johnston achieved success in pole vaulting, clearing a height of 5.61 meters (18-4 3/4), which ranks as the program's second-best performance. Viktor Morozov made his mark by reaching third place on the program's long jump list with a leap of 7.88 meters (25-10 1/4).

Other noteworthy performances included Jordan Koskondy improving her weight throw to 21.31 meters (69-11) for third place, while Abira Smith reached a distance of 20.70 meters (67-11) for fifth place.

Jackson Gilbert finished with his personal best in the 400m invitational section, clocking in at 46.64 seconds for eighth place on his program's list.

The events will continue tomorrow as both teams aim to build on their strong performances.