Vikings Display Strong Performances at Annual Vikings Invitational

The Long Beach City College track and field team delivered an impressive performance at the annual Vikings Invitational last Friday, hosting 11 teams in a highly competitive meet.

On the men's side, Marques Guzman dominated the sprints, securing first place in both the 100 meters (10.81s) and 200 meters (21.39s). Justin Auston placed second in the 400 meters (49.90s), while Sebastian Pardo Sandoval claimed third in the 800 meters (2:05.47). In distance events, Jamari Gibson finished second in the 3,000-meter steeplechase (11:02.00). The field events saw Jordan McGruder take first in the triple jump (12.28m), Jorden Ransom place third in the shot put (11.41m), and Gavin Wang earn second in the javelin (48.52m).

For the women's team, Nevaeh Lane sprinted to victory in the 100 meters (12.51s), and Danika Hunter secured third in the 400 meters (1:02.26). In distance events, Jennifer Martinez placed third in the 5,000 meters (20:32.23), while April Molina took first in the 3,000-meter steeplechase (13:20). Zion Peters earned a runner-up finish in the 100-meter hurdles (16.36s). The Vikings' 4x400 relay team of Jasmine Reed, Taliyah Romero, Sa'Mir Braccey, and Danika Hunter clinched first place in 4:18.34.

The Vikings also excelled in field events, with Sa'Mir Braccey winning the triple jump (9.72m) and Saryah Harris-Davis taking first in the shot put (11.52m). Lauren Ferguson placed second in the javelin (30.64m) to round out a strong showing.

"It was a great day of track and field at this fourth annual Vikings Invitational," said Director of Track and Field Marcus Carroll. "We got an opportunity to recognize and leave a legacy for our former friend and colleague, Coach John McFadyen, while celebrating our phenomenal sophomore class. On the track and field side, we got to see outstanding performances and top finishes in most of the events."

The Vikings will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next meet at the Orange Coast College Classic on Friday, March 14.