PHX Reporter

Grand Canyon University's track and field team emerged victorious at the Battle at the Beach event in Long Beach, California, showcasing strong performances and securing top positions in various categories against some of the nation's elite.

Head coach Tom Flood expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "It was a good day for the Lopes at the Beach," as his athletes competed against formidable teams like LSU, Long Beach State, Oregon, and USC.

In the men's events, sophomore Prosper Ekporere showed remarkable skill in the 110-meter hurdles, clocking a time of 13.61 seconds, securing a spot as the leading mark in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) and ranking in both the West Region and NCAA top ten. Although Ekporere's performance would have set a school record, a slightly excessive wind reading affected the official standings. Francisco Marques, also a sophomore, clocked 13.69 seconds, securing third place.

Senior Cameron Wilmington registered a time of 50.91 seconds in the 400-meter hurdles, securing a spot in the regional and national rankings. Junior Miguel Rosario III excelled in the sprints, taking fifth place in the 100 meters and achieving a runner-up finish in the 200 meters, which is currently the fastest WAC time and a notable mark regionally.

Coach Flood commended Miguel's efforts, stating, "Miguel's sprint double was huge for us — that 200 time leads the WAC and puts him on the regional map."

In the field events, senior Harrison Cornell set a season-high mark for the WAC in the discus with a throw of 52.41 meters and placed sixth in the hammer throw.

On the women's side, freshman Nina Thevenin impressed with competitive performances in the 100 meters and 200 meters sprints. Her efforts did not go unnoticed by Flood, who remarked, "She had a very nice sprint double with great performances that show her potential at this level."

Senior Aaliyah Rifort-Delem and junior Taliyah Booker achieved the two fastest 400 meters times in the WAC, earning third and fourth places respectively. The women's 800 meters saw notable performances from Alyssa Blockburger and Michaela Lewis, securing top positions in the conference rankings. Senior Amanda Thrue showcased strong performances in the 100-meter hurdles and long jump.

The meet concluded on a high note for GCU with the women's team winning the 4x400-meter relay and the men securing second place.

The team will now have a week of rest before select athletes compete at Glendale Community College, while the multi-event participants head to the Bryan Clay Invitational in Azusa. Flood acknowledged the team's achievements, saying, "The majority of the Beach group will have a much deserved weekend off this upcoming week."