The Elon University women's track and field team hosted its annual home meet, the Phoenix Invitational, Saturday, April 14, at the Jerry and Jeanne Robertson Track and Field Complex. Events kicked off at 9:30 a.m. and lasted until 5:30 p.m.
Halfway through, Bryanna Hames among other seniors were honored for their dedication to the program. Both the long distance cross country teams and track and field runners, pole vaulters and throwers were celebrated.
Hames was in the number 1 seed going into the invitational, and she qualified for finals with ease. Hames said the biggest challenge leading up to this event was her recent back injury, which slowed her down earlier in the season but this didn't stop her from competing today.
“Biggest struggle had to be my back injury” Hames said. “I took fourth in hammer, and second in shot put.”
Sophomore Melody Burke had an outstanding performance for the Phoenix in the long jump event. She obtained her PR in Women’s Long Jump, as well as placed a position in the top five best Long Jumps in Elon’s history.
“I did my first three and made finals. Then I did my second three and the last one I popped the big one. Nice way to end it. The measurement was 18 feet 9 inches, but if you want the meters it was 5.71. That's my PR,” Burke said.
Hurdlers like Senior Emily Dixon felt very confident competing today. After qualifying in preliminary round for the 100M Hurdles, she finished in 2nd place in the final with a time of 14.35. Because she did not compete last weekend, she was ready to give it her all at home.
“I had a good day,” Dixon said. “I think my hurdles I’ve definitely noticed an improvement, my speed and endurance has gotten a little better. I was expecting some good performances especially being at home.”
The United Kingdom born student-athlete even gave it a go at three events. She was planning on doing a fourth, but pulled out of it because she didn't want to strain her shin even more on such a busy day. As for the team, she is hopeful for the rest of the season.
“Everything is just coming together at the last minute. Things are looking positive. I am hopeful that I can keep this up for the next two or three weeks.”
The Phoenix have their next two meets at the Duke Invitational next Friday, April 20 and the Virginia Challenge on the same day as well. Afterwards they head into the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) conference tournament.