STARKVILLE, Miss. – Mississippi College track & field opened competition at the Mississippi State Bulldog Relays on Thursday with strong performances in the hammer throw, highlighted by a school record and multiple personal-best marks.

On the men's side, James David Miller led the way with a personal-best throw of 56.65 meters (185 feet, 10 inches), breaking the Mississippi College school record in the event.

Teammate Jacob Keesee also delivered a standout performance, recording a personal-best mark of 54.23 meters (177 feet, 11 inches), which ranks second all-time in program history.

In the women's hammer throw, Rebekah Zweerink posted a personal-best 44.15 meters (144 feet, 10 inches) to highlight the Choctaws' efforts on the day.

The Choctaws will return to action Friday as the remainder of the team travels to Starkville to compete in Day 2 and Day 3 of the Bulldog Relays.