Seahawks Soar at Spartan Invitational, Setting Records
In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, the St. Mary’s College of Maryland men’s and women’s indoor track and field teams made waves at the St. Thomas Aquinas Spartan Invitational. The event, which took place at the Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex in Staten Island, N.Y., saw the Seahawks competing against a variety of NCAA Division I, II, and III teams. Despite the stiff competition, the Seahawks rose to the occasion, setting numerous personal and school records that left spectators in awe.
Women’s Team Shines in Various Events
The women’s team showcased their talent and dedication across multiple events, with standout performances that set the bar high for future competitions. Chay’La Rivers stood out in the 60m dash, finishing in 8.42 seconds and securing 42nd place in a fiercely competitive field. Rivers also made waves in the 60m hurdles, setting a new personal and school record with a time of 9.58, earning an impressive 15th place.
Avery Arizzi led the charge in the 500m dash, setting a new school record and personal best with a time of 1:24.60, clinching 17th place. Teammates Mileah Cotton and Dami Akinsanya followed closely, showcasing their skill and determination in the event. Madison Kingsley also left her mark, achieving a personal record in the 1 Mile event with a time of 6:06.62.
Rocksann Smith proved her prowess in the Triple Jump, securing 14th place with a jump of 10.43 meters, breaking the St. Mary’s school record and setting a personal best. In the Shot Put, Jillian Zukley led the Seahawks with a throw of 11.83 meters, clinching 4th place and solidifying her spot in the 2025 AARTFC Championship.
The women’s team relay further demonstrated their strength and unity, with the 4000m Distance Medley Relay team clocking in at 14:02.50.
Men’s Team Excels in Sprints and Relays
The men’s team put on a stellar performance in various sprint and relay events, showcasing their speed and teamwork. Mason Layne led the charge in the 60m dash, achieving a personal best with a time of 7.48. Teammates Jaedon Aso and Zack Kralec also set new personal records, highlighting their dedication and skill.
In the middle distance events, Jake Robey made a statement in the 500m dash, finishing in 1:09.59 and breaking the St. Mary’s school record while setting a personal best. Moses McRae led the Seahawks in the 400m event, followed closely by Henry Wilcox and Nick Haylock.
The men’s relay teams also left their mark, with the 4x200m relay team setting a new St. Mary’s school record with a time of 1:36.21. The 4000m Distance Medley Relay team showcased their endurance and teamwork, completing the race in 11:52.66.
Zack Kralec stood out in the Pole Vault, achieving 8th place with a height of 4.32 meters, setting both a personal and school record.
Looking Ahead
As the Seahawks gear up for their next challenge at the Alvernia Winter Invite on January 18 in Reading, Pennsylvania, fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling display of athleticism and determination from this talented team. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey to success.
David M. Higgins II, our dedicated journalist, captures the essence of the Seahawks’ triumph with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, David’s deep-rooted connection to the local community shines through in his compelling coverage of the team’s record-breaking achievements. His commitment to uncovering the truth and sharing impactful stories resonates with readers, drawing them into the exhilarating world of competitive sports and highlighting the dedication and resilience of these exceptional athletes. Join us as we celebrate the Seahawks’ remarkable success and cheer them on in their future endeavors, inspired by their unwavering spirit and unwavering pursuit of excellence.
