Gainesville Pair of Throwers Dominate Tom Jones Invitational

Gainesville Pair of Throwers Dominate Tom Jones Invitational

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (April 12, 2024) – South Carolina Track & Field opened the 2024 Tom Jones Invitational on Friday with a pair of wins and several key marks on the season. The Gamecock men’s team competed in 10 events, highlighted by a pair of veteran throwers.

Dylan Targgart Shines in Shot Put

Dylan Targgart eclipsed the 20.00m mark in the shot put for the first time in his career, throwing an impressive 20.45m (67-1.25) on his first attempt. His performance ranks second in the NCAA and third in Gamecock history. Following Targgart was teammate CJ Licata, who also set a new personal best with a throw of 20.40m (66-11.25), securing the runner-up position.

Men’s 1500m Squad Impresses

The men’s 1500m squad, led by Jaouad Khchina, delivered outstanding performances. Khchina clocked a personal best time of 3:41.63, the second-fastest in program history. Rogerio Amaral also set a new personal record with a time of 3:43.30, ranking fourth in program history.

Additional Podium Finishes

Nate Figgers claimed a podium finish in the men’s high jump by clearing 2.12m (6-11.5). The women’s squad saw Teresa Cherotich win the outdoor 5K with a personal best time of 17:00.08, while Anya Arroyo and JaMeesia Ford secured runner-up positions in their events.

Closing Day Two

The Gamecocks will continue competition at the 2024 Tom Jones Memorial Invitational, with events kicking off at 10 a.m. tomorrow. The women’s pole vault will be one of the early events to watch.

Men’s Individual Results:

• Nyck Harbor – 200 Meters: 20.68 (1.8)
• Jaouad Khchina – 1500 Meters: 3:41.63*
• Nate Figgers – High Jump: 2.12m/6-11.5

Women’s Individual Results:

• JaMeesia Ford – 200 Meters: 22.41w (4.1)
• Teresa Cherotich – 5000 Meters: 17:00.08*
• Claudia Satzke – 3K Steeplechase: 11:25.48*

* denotes outdoor personal record