MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Blue Mountain Christian University’s track and field teams delivered strong performances at the Rhodes Invitational over the weekend. The meet featured competitors from NAIA, NCAA Division II, and Division III programs.
The highlight was Ella Shepherd’s victory in the women’s 3,000-meter steeplechase. Shepherd finished first with a time of 12:18.57, earning her the event title. On the men’s side, Braxton Enzor finished fourth in the 3,000-meter steeplechase in 12:03.67.
Other notable performances included Kaedyn Wilson’s eighth-place finish in the women’s 5,000 meters with a time of 19:28.10. Jorja Kate Mooneyhan led the women’s middle-distance runners, placing 10th in the 800 meters (2:37.13) and 18th in the mile (5:56.32). Ruth Hutchinson also competed in both events, finishing 13th and 21st, respectively.
The women’s 4×800-meter relay team of Hutchinson, Mooneyhan, Wilson, and Shepherd finished fourth with a time of 10:19.72. On the men’s side, Jonah Barnhardt led in the 5,000 meters with a seventh-place finish (15:32.44). Lukas Dykes recorded a ninth-place finish in the 800 meters (2:04.84), while other top finishers included Jakarien Perry and Samuel Hopper.
In relay events, the men’s 4×800-meter team placed fifth overall with a time of 8:36.51. Jared Mooneyhan contributed a fifth-place showing in the pole vault, clearing 3.20 meters (10 feet, 6 inches). Blue Mountain will continue its outdoor season in the coming weeks.
