CLEVELAND, Tenn. --- Showcasing unparalleled talent, Mississippi College's track and field athletes made a resounding statement at the 2023 Lee University Last Chance Meet. Amidst intense competition, the Choctaws delivered a series of extraordinary performances, shattering records and securing top finishes, further elevating their status as a top-tier program in NCAA Division II.
Jan Lukas Becker, a distance-running sensation, set a new school record in the Outdoor Men's 5,000-meter run with a time of 14:08.53. This outstanding performance not only earned him the 21st school record for Mississippi College Track and Field this season but also secured an NCAA Division II Provisional Qualifying mark, placing him 30th in the nation for this event.
In the Women's Hammer Throw, Essence Tornabene continued to impress with a top-10 finish, throwing a remarkable 47.11 meters. Tornabene's consistent progress in the event has earned her a well-deserved spot among the Gulf South Conference's elite throwers.
Cole Benoit, a force to be reckoned with in middle-distance running, secured a top-15 finish in the Men's 1500-meter run with a time of 3:53.80. The three-time Gulf South Conference Champion now sits as the 24th ranked athlete in the nation for his signature event.
Short sprints specialist Kevin Turner also made his mark at the meet, qualifying for the semi-finals in the Men's 100-meter dash with a time of 10.59. Currently tied for the 19th position nationally in the 100m dash, Turner's prowess on the track firmly cements his status as one of the premier sprinters in the nation.
As the 2023 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field National Championships approach, Mississippi College's track and field athletes have their sights set on making an impact on the national stage. The selection show for the event will take place on Tuesday, May 16, at 5:00 PM C.T.
To stay informed on Mississippi College Track and Field and to track the athletes' journey at the 2023 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field National Championships, visit the official Mississippi College Athletics website at www.gochoctaws.com. Moreover, enthusiasts can engage with the team on social media through Instagram (@gochoctaws_xctf) and Twitter (@GoChoctaws_XCTF) for real-time updates and exclusive content.
