Reno, Nevada - Azusa Pacific competed in the first competition of the New Year on Friday night at the University of Nevada, highlighted by successful results from the Cougars' distance crew.

Senior Eric Perez had a career night, capping off the evening with two first-place finishes. He clocked an 8:48.47 in the 3000m, followed by teammate Kyle Galinis who ran 8:57.42 as the teammates went 1-2 in the event. Another victory for Perez followed as he was a part of the DMR squad who ran to a first-place finish in 10:28.97, along with Galinis, Erick Leal, and Adam King. 

On the women's side, standout transfer Olivia Alexandre ran her second 400m of the season, taking second place and earning a spot on the national qualifying list. Alexandre clocked 55.47 to claim the ninth spot on the list. 

Alayna Verner and Trinity Miller ran well in the 200m, as Verner ran 24.37 to improve upon her previous provisional mark and move up to the eighth spot. Miller ran her first provisional performance of the season, finishing in 24.58.

In the field, Eliana Saunders improved upon her provisional mark in the high jump, clearing 1.73m (5' 8"). Her new mark moves her up to ninth in the country in the event.

Up Next: The Cougars will compete on Day 3 of the Nevada International and Multis on Saturday, Jan. 25. Live results can be accessed here.