No. 3 Razorbacks Open Weekend at John McDonnell Invitational
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The No. 3 University of Arkansas women’s track and field team opened its weekend Friday at the John McDonnell Invitational in Fayetteville. With the bulk of their activity set for Saturday, the Razorbacks competed in just two events on day one which included an outdoor personal best by Taliyah Brooks in the high jump. Running events and the remainder of the field slate get going Saturday.
Away from the competition, head coach Lance Harter and members of the Razorback women’s team signed autographs and met with fans before Friday’s baseball series opener between Arkansas and Kentucky at Baum Stadium. The team was on hand in continued celebration of winning the 2015 NCAA indoor title in March.
In the final event of the evening for the Razorback women, Brooks finished in third place in the high jump with a final mark of 1.75m/5-8.75 which established a new best for the freshman. Friday marked the home opener for Brooks who, along with teammates Alex Gochenour and Leigha Brown, began their outdoor campaign two weeks ago at the Texas Relays. Aatiyah Henry was Arkansas’ lone competitor in the long jump and had a best of 5.50m/18-0.5.
In addition to Arkansas, this weekend’s field at the John McDonnell Invitational includes Kansas, Memphis, Minnesota, No. 17 Missouri, Missouri State, No. 13 Oklahoma State and Tulsa. For the first time in meet history, the event features high school competition.
The John McDonnell Invitational continues Saturday with gates opening for the public at noon (CT). General admission is $5 with free admission for UA students with valid ID and fans 17 years old and younger. To purchase tickets, call 800-982-HOGS (4647), email raztk@uark.edu or visit the Razorback Ticket Center just east of Baum Stadium.
John McDonnell Invitational, Day 1
John McDonnell Field | Fayetteville, Ark.
High Jump
3. Taliyah Brooks – 1.75m/5-8.75 [PR – previous: 5-7.75]
5. Alex Gochenour – 1.70m/5-7
8. Leigha Brown – 1.65m/5-5
–. Alyssa Parker – NH
Long Jump
7. Aatiyah Henry – 5.50m/18-0.5 (+0.3)
For more information on Arkansas track and field including in-meet updates, follow @RazorbackTF on Twitter.
