EUGENE, Ore. (June 6, 2024) – Gamecock Women Secure Four Finals Appearances

South Carolina Women’s Track & Field Shines at NCAA Outdoor Championship

The University of South Carolina Women’s Track & Field team made a strong start at the NCAA Outdoor Championship in Eugene, Oregon. The team competed in seven events and secured spots in the finals in four of them, showcasing their talent and determination on the track.

Relay Success

The Gamecocks’ 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams delivered impressive performances, earning automatic qualifying spots into the finals. In the 4x100m relay, the team comprising Jayla Jamison, Cynteria James, Zaya Akins, and JaMeesia Ford finished second in the second heat with a time of 42.66, sealing their spot in the Saturday finale.

The 4x400m relay team continued the winning streak, with Akins, Jamison, Sylvia Chelangat, and Ford clinching victory in the opening heat with a time of 3:27.10. The team’s stellar performance secured their place in the finals, setting the stage for an exciting showdown on Saturday.

Individual Triumphs

Individually, Ford and Jamison stood out with strong showings in the 200m semifinals. Ford clocked a winning time of 22.14, just shy of her personal best, while Jamison ran a new personal best of 22.35, moving her into second all-time in Gamecock outdoor history. Both athletes earned automatic spots in the 200m finals, promising an exhilarating competition on Saturday.

All-American Honors

In addition to the relay success and individual achievements, five Gamecock athletes received Honorable Mention All-American honors: Zaya Akins (400m), Sylvia Chelangat (800m), Teresa Cherotich (Steeplechase), Cynteria James (200m), and Judy Kosgei (1500m). Their outstanding performances added to the team’s overall success at the championship.

Looking Ahead

The men’s team will have their final opportunities to shine at the NCAA Outdoor Championship, with Channing Ferguson competing in the high jump and Anass Essayi in the 1500m final. The Gamecocks are eager to build on the women’s impressive performances and finish the championship on a high note.