North Carolina Track and Field Shines at the Duke Invitational
DURHAM, N.C. – The University of North Carolina’s track and field team made an impressive mark on the opening day of the Duke Invitational held on Thursday, April 10. The competition saw several Tar Heels achieving personal records and remarkable performances, thrilling fans and showcasing the talent within the squad.
Tommy Kitchell’s Record-Breaking Hammer Throw
One of the day’s highlights was undoubtedly Tommy Kitchell. Competing in the men’s hammer throw, Kitchell propelled his throw to an impressive distance of 60.59 meters. This phenomenal effort not only secured him a seventh-place finish but also moved him into the seventh spot in the all-time rankings for UNC, surpassing Allen Bradd’s 59.18 meters set back in 1998. What makes this achievement particularly inspiring is that Kitchell clinched his spot in the finals after a challenging start; he initially fouled on his first two attempts and redeemed himself with a standout final throw.
Rising Stars in Women’s Hammer Throw
On the women’s side, Kosi Umerah and McKynzie Mauney also made headlines, both achieving personal records for the third consecutive meet. Umerah’s throw of 60.94 meters not only earned her a second-place finish but also catapulted her to sixth on the all-time list for women’s hammer throw at UNC. Gracie Bolick matched her own personal best with a throw of 56.07 meters, tying the mark she set earlier at this very meet in 2023. These performances showcased the depth and potential of the women’s team.
Evie Culbreath’s Heptathlon Debut
Freshman Evie Culbreath embarked on her first heptathlon experience, making an admirable debut by competing in four out of seven events. Her standout performance came in the 100-meter hurdles, where she finished fourth with a time of 14.03 seconds. Currently positioned in twelfth place, Culbreath’s determination could see her climbing the ranks as the competition progresses.
Heptathlon Results:
- Evie Culbreath: 2977 points, 12th overall
- 100m Hurdles: 14.03 seconds, 4th place
- High Jump: 1.51m (4-11½), 14th place
- Shot Put: 9.80m (32-2), 14th place
- 200m: 25.35 seconds, 6th place
Women’s Hammer Throw Results:
- Kosi Umerah: 60.94m (199-11), 2nd place, PR [sixth all-time]
- Gracie Bolick: 56.07m (183-11), 6th place
- McKynzie Mauney: 53.69m (176-1), 11th place, PR
Men’s Hammer Throw Results:
- Tommy Kitchell: 60.59m (198-9), 7th place, 7th all-time
- Sam Romerhaus: 56.33m (184-9), 14th place
- Ty Castro: 55.72m (182-10), 15th place
- Brayden Radhuber: 52.87m (173-5), 18th place
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The University of North Carolina’s athletic program continues to impress, showcasing an array of talent and a bright future for its athletes. Stay tuned as we follow their journey through the rest of the season!
