BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Piedmont University track & field program kicked off the 2025 season Sunday in Birmingham, Alabama at the KMS Invitational. Piedmont had multiple personal bests beaten this weekend and saw top-10 finishes across the board.
On the women's side, senior
Michelle Cates had a standout day with top finishes in multiple events while also bringing home a new personal best in the 60m hurdles (9.93-3rd) and the 600m (1:48.17-7th).
Kayla Ward earned second in the women's shot put with a mark of 10.83m while four women earned top-10 finishes in the women's weight throw led by
KK Thomas who placed first (13.40m).
Matthew Blocksom earned second in the men's weight throw also bringing home a personal record with a mark of 14.07m followed by
George Ketch and
Kerrigan McClain. Two men earned top-10 placements in the men's shot put led by
Jayden Smith who placed sixth (12.35m).
In the men's long jump,
Bryant Murray led the Lions with a 6.46m jump. Following behind,
Al Martin and
Franklin Brown Jr. both set new personal bests, placing seventh and ninth.
Fresh off cross country season, sophomore
Brody Geckler set a new personal best in the 3000m finishing just shy of top-10. Freshman
Madison Worsham made her track debut placing 10th in the mile (6:23.98).
Up next, the Lions will head to Danville, Kentucky for the Centre Indoor Showcase on Saturday, January 24
Field Events - Bold denotes Personal Best
Track Events - Bold denotes Personal Best (only finals included)
