UNLV Rebels Shine at Desert Heat Classic: Achieving Personal Bests and Breaking Records!

TUCSON, Ariz. (UNLVRebels.com) – The UNLV track and field team wrapped up the season at the Desert Heat Classic, hosted in Arizona. They made headlines with a record-breaking run in the 3,000m and several personal bests at Drachman Stadium.

Senior Natalia Ruiz stole the spotlight, breaking a long-standing 25-year-old program record in the 3000m. She finished second overall with a time of 9:39.34, surpassing the previous record set by Katie Barto in 2000.

In the high jump, Grace Cunningham performed well, clearing 1.79m (5′ 10.5″) to tie for sixth place. Her teammate Erin Thompson followed with a height of 1.59m (5′ 2.5″), earning 18th place. In the hammer throw, Lauryn Williams shone with a personal best of 47.80m (156′ 10″).

Juliana Roberson had a big day too, marking a personal best of 5.71m (18′ 8.75″) in the long jump, which placed her second in her flight. She also finished ninth in the triple jump with a distance of 12.25m (40′ 2.25″).

The Rebels were impressive in the discus throw, with Krishna Jayasankar achieving 51.25m (168′ 1″) for fourth place and Roxene Simpson following close behind in seventh at 50.10m (164′ 4″). Sophia Clark added to the team’s success with a solid throw of 42.76m (140′ 3″).

On the track, personal bests flourished. Sadia Green led the 400m runners with a career-best 55.74, while teammates Malika Mashack (57.15) and Jayda Bushay (57.23) also set personal records. In the 200m, Gabriella Caldwell sprinted to a personal best of 24.43, with Green (24.77), Kaelin Gowdy (24.92), and others contributing strong performances.

Middle distance highlights included Autumn Viscardo’s personal best of 2:23.79 in the 800m, while Leah Okuda finished in 2:21.60. Claire Rands wrapped up the meet in the 1500m, finishing with a time of 4:47.13 and placing 27th overall.

Looking Ahead: UNLV will take a week off before heading to the Mountain West Outdoor Championships in Clovis, California, from May 15-17.

For the latest on Rebel track and field, check out the team’s schedule page. Follow their updates on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.

Recent data reveals that college track participation has increased, reflecting a growing interest in athletics among young women. This trend has spurred more programs to invest in resources, coaching, and support for female athletes. In the realm of sports, breaking records like Ruiz’s not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also inspires others in the community.

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