Six athletes from Southern Methodist University have qualified for the NCAA West First Round, which serves as the opening stage of the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. The competition begins on May 27 in Fayetteville, Arkansas, at John McDonnell Field.
The Mustangs will start their events on Thursday with participation in the 100-meter hurdles at 6 p.m., followed by an entry in the long jump at 6:30 p.m. Another Mustang will compete in the 800 meters at 7:50 p.m., with a teammate scheduled to race next in the 400-meter hurdles. The top twenty-four runners from each event will advance to Saturday’s quarterfinals, providing them an opportunity to secure a place at nationals. According to event rules, “The top three from each heat and the next six fastest times move on to Saturday.” The twelve best athletes from these rounds will continue to the championship meet held in Eugene.
On Saturday, two more SMU athletes, including Hedda Kvalvag, are set to join the competition by participating in the triple jump. To advance further, these jumpers must finish among the top twelve competitors.
Fans can watch all events via streaming on ESPN or through updates provided by SMU’s mobile app.
The outcome of this weekend’s meet will determine which Mustangs continue their season at nationals.
