Jezena Aponte Shatters NJCU Program Record in Outdoor Season Opener at Ramapo Invitational

For the latest news, updates, and information on New Jersey City University sports, visit njcugothicknights.com. Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Gothic Knights news by following NJCU Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
 
 

MAHWAH, N.J. – The New Jersey City University (NJCU) track and field team kicked off their outdoor season at the Ramapo Invitational on Friday, March 28, held at Ramapo College. Sophomore Jezena Aponte (Jersey City, N.J./Snyder) tabbed her fifth NJCU track & field program record with her finish in the 5,000m race.The day began with junior Lucy Pelaez (Jersey City, N.J./Snyder) competing in the shot put. Pelaez placed 27^th out of 32 competitors, achieving her best mark of 6.65 meters on her first attempt.
By: Contact: Hannah Hirst; Assistant Athletic Communication Director
Freshman Joseph Jean-Marie also made his collegiate debut in the shot put, where he placed 16th out of 31 participants with a throw of 10.34 meters.In a standout performance, sophomore Jezena Aponte (Jersey City, N.J./Snyder) made history in the 5,000-meter race, setting a new NJCU program record with an outstanding time of 19:25.46 in her collegiate debut. Her finish earned her ninth place out of 28 competitors, and she shattered the previous program record of 20:27.16, set by April Gutierrez in 2021. Aponte’s remarkable feat adds to her already impressive legacy, as she now holds five program records—encompassing the 5k and 6k in cross country, as well as the indoor 3k and mile, and the outdoor 5k.UP NEXT:
Looking ahead, the Gothic Knights are gearing up for the second day of the Ramapo Invitational, scheduled for Saturday, March 29. The competition is set to resume at 9 a.m.