Arkansas alums LaQuan Nairn, Jarrion Lawson long jump in Botswana

GABORONE, BOTSWANA – Competing in the Botswana Golden Grand Prix on Saturday produced a pair of solid long jump marks for Arkansas alums LaQuan Nairn and Jarrion Lawson, who placed third and fourth in the competition.

Both had their best jump come in the final round with Nairn, the 2022 Commonwealth champion, hitting a mark of 26-7 (8.10), improving from a 26-2.25 (7.98) in round five, while Lawson finished with a 26-6.5 (8.09), which bettered his 25-10 (7.87) from round three.

“I’m extremely proud of both of those guys,” said Arkansas associate head coach Travis Geopfert. “Traveling half-way around the world and putting up some very solid performances.

“It’s rewarding to see LaQuan coming into his own on the professional circuit. He’s adjusting well and we know it’s just the tip of the iceberg for him.”

For Lawson this marked his first long jump competition since May 29 of 2022. A full patella rupture ended a promising season.

Indoors during 2022, Lawson won the USATF title and then placed fourth at the World Indoor Championships, registering the same mark of 26-10.5 (8.19) at both meets.

An improvement to 26-11.75w (8.22w) outdoors as runner-up in Chula Vista, California, would be his final meet of the season due to the injury he sustained.

“As for Jarrion, he never ceases to amaze me,” noted Geopfert. “Eleven months post-surgery from a shorter approach than normal and he jumps over 8.00m.

“Words can’t describe how proud and how happy I am for him. Just an amazing young man. His Instagram name couldn’t be more accurate, @over_comer is amazingly fitting!”

Another Arkansas alum, Kiara Parker, competing in the Botswana meet placed third in the 100m with an 11.16, her fastest season opening time.