In a thrilling start to the SEC Indoor Championships, the No. 1 ranked Arkansas Razorbacks showcased their dominance, thanks to standout performances in the 5,000m and the distance medley relay. With 18 points on the board, they’re sitting comfortably at the top after day one.
Nick Busienei stole the spotlight in the 5,000m, clocking in a meet record of 13:31.86. This not only secured a victory but also etched his name at No. 7 on the University of Arkansas all-time list.
He shattered the previous meet record set by fellow Razorback Patrick Kiprop just last year. James Sankei added to the team’s tally, finishing seventh with a solid 13:44.57.
Busienei’s victory marks the 21st indoor 5,000m title for Arkansas since they joined the SEC in 1992, making him the 14th Razorback to achieve this feat.
The Razorbacks also shone in the distance medley relay, grabbing six crucial points. The team of Owan Logorodi, Zyaire Nuriddin, Julian Carter, and Brian Masai clocked a competitive 9:30.84.
They finished behind South Carolina, who won in 9:30.08, and Ole Miss, who secured second place in 9:30.34. Florida initially placed third but faced disqualification due to a baton infraction.
In the 200m prelims, Jelani Watkins led the charge for Arkansas, advancing to the finals with an indoor personal best of 20.42, just behind Florida’s Wayna McCoy. Watkins remains second on the UA all-time list, improving from his previous best of 20.43.
Dapriest Hogans matched his career best at 20.63, maintaining his No. 8 spot on the list, while Tevijon Williams also advanced with a time of 20.65. Jamarion Stubbs narrowly missed the cutoff with a 20.87.
In the heptathlon, Cooper Williams ended the day in sixth place, accumulating 2,862 points. He kicked off with a 7.43 in the 60m, followed by a 21-9.5 long jump. His shot put effort of 36-8.25 added more points, and he topped the high jump with an impressive 6-8.25.
Meanwhile, Link Lindsey competed in the long jump, finishing 15th with a leap of 23-6.75.
As the championships continue, the Razorbacks are poised to maintain their momentum, with several athletes showing promise for more standout performances.