The Millikin men’s and women’s track and field teams competed at the IC Thursday Throwdown on April 2, turning in several event victories and top-three finishes.
The meet featured strong performances from both squads, with athletes achieving personal bests and marks that rank among the top in program history. These results highlight the depth of talent within the Millikin track and field program.
In women’s events, Hailey Newill led a sweep in the pole vault by winning with a clearance of 3.34 meters. Alexa Weter finished second (3.19 meters) and Kelsie Fuoss took third (2.89 meters). Ella Neihls won the triple jump with a mark of 10.66 meters, while Alexis Wike (second) and Audrey Remole (third) shared heights of 1.50 meters in the high jump.
On the track, Brooklynn Sweikar captured first place in the 800 meters (2:25.24), joined on the podium by Lindsey Klaus who finished third (2:30.51). Brynn Behrmann placed third in the 1500 meters (5:11.49), while Alayna Schultz was third in the 400 meters (1:01.83). The women’s team closed out their competition with a win in the 4×400-meter relay as Schultz, Kiley Coker, Klaus, and Sweikar combined for a time of 4:15.60.
For men’s events, Jack Pearce secured third place in high jump by clearing 1.80 meters; Tyler Hensley was second in pole vault at 3.95 meters; Aaron Mohr won the men’s 800 meters (1:58.58), followed closely by Jude Toft (second) and Joey McGinn (third). In distance races, Aiden Pacunas claimed victory in the men’s 5000 meters with Jack Fisher finishing second and Talam Thrasher taking third.
Other notable performances included Emmanuel Nwatu placing second in both hurdles events—110-meter hurdles at 14.89 seconds (fifth all-time at Millikin) and third place finish in his later race—and Hunter Danberry recording Millikin’s third-best hammer throw ever at 49.18 meters.
Relay teams also performed well as both men’s squads finished first or second across relays including a win for Jaiden Walkin, Awstace Grauer, Aaron Mohr, Ryne Norton—and another group taking runner-up honors.
