VUU track and field posts standout results at indoor opener | Richmond Free Press

Virginia Union University’s track and field teams opened the indoor season with a surge of early success, highlighted by multiple school records, event wins and breakout performances across two meets.

At the season opener, freshman Kornti Searles broke the indoor school record in the women’s weight throw, with fellow freshman Ellis Oshawnna moving to No. 2 all-time in the event. In the long jump, Angell Garrison and Taylor Porter opened their seasons with personal bests. 

Freshman J’meriyon Osborne delivered the top men’s performance of the opener, winning the men’s open long jump ahead of 22 competitors in his collegiate debut. Timothy Butler broke the indoor school record in the weight throw and advanced to the finals, finishing sixth in a field of 29 athletes. In the invitational long jump, Jeremiah Palacious placed third with a collegiate-best mark of 23 feet, 6½ inches. 

“The first day of the meet was a strong showing for both the men’s and women’s teams — a great way to kick off the season,” said Franck Charles, VUU head track and field coach. 

The Panthers carried that momentum to Liberty University, where day two produced three more women’s school records. 

Yamilet Cruz broke a 15-year-old school record in the shot put with a throw of 11.83 meters, surpassing Shakeema Browne’s 2010 mark. Abijah Jepkemboi set a new program record in the 5,000 meters with a time of 19:47, eclipsing the previous record set in 2017. Victoria Louis added the third record of the day, finishing the 300 meters in 42.08. 

“Day two was another good day for our ladies as they broke three more school records,” Charles said. “Our women’s team is heading in the right direction and, in total, they’ve already shattered four school records this season.