LIVINGSTON, Ala. - The University of West Alabama track and field team is set to compete at the GSC Championships, taking place Wednesday, April 29, through Friday, May 1, in Montevallo, Alabama.
With a strong mix of standout individuals and competitive relay squads, UWA enters the championship meet with high expectations and strong momentum.
On the track, J'Da Williams enters as the favorite in the women's 100-meter dash and a serious contender in the 200-meter dash. She'll be joined in the sprints by a deep group, including Adria Burrell, D'Kota Hudson, and Jocelyn Randle, giving UWA multiple scoring opportunities. On the men's side, Lawrence Walker Jr. and Braxton Williams will look to make an impact in the sprint races.
In the field events, Dedric Hicks headlines the group as a massive favorite in the shot put, while UWA also will contribute in other throwing events. The Tigers bring additional depth with athletes like Avery Peterson, Jaxson Lovelace, Caleb Vann, and Autumn Sansing covering events such as long jump, triple jump, discus, javelin, and high jump.
Distance runner Mercy Lomuria will be one to watch in the 10,000-meter run, entering as a strong contender, while Mathis Breton is set to compete on the men's side. UWA also has representation in the 5,000 meters with Rita Walker and a men's group that includes Breton, Gary Mata, Lorenzo Pelusi, and Jonathan Phillips, adding valuable depth in the distance events.
In the hurdles, Jalen Green is expected to be a top performer in the 110-meter hurdles, with a strong shot at a top-three finish, while Kiona McCallister will compete in the 400-meter hurdles as she continues to gain steam in that event. In the 800-meters, Sha'Kenye Darden and Ray Englebert add to UWA's presence in the mid-distance events.
UWA relay teams could be a major factor in the team standings. The women's 4x400-meter relay team enters as the defending indoor champions and will look to carry that success outdoors, while the women's 4x100-meter relay team has the speed to contend for a title. Both men's relay squads are also positioned to contribute key points.
With competition spanning three days, the Tigers will rely on both star power and depth. UWA has a strong chance to leave Montevallo with multiple podium finishes and a significant presence at the top of the conference standings.
