AZUSA, Calif. — With national qualifying marks on the line, Azusa Pacific Track & Field delivered a series of clutch performances at its own Franson Last Chance Invite, held May 8–10 at the Cougar Athletic Stadium. Over three days of competition, the Cougars tallied personal bests, season bests, and all-time program performances as the postseason draws near.
The multi-events kicked off the weekend with senior Ashley Hume turning in a standout performance in the women's heptathlon, placing fourth with a new personal best of 5,061 points—her first time crossing the 5,000-point threshold. On the men's side, Hayden McKee put together a solid decathlon, finishing fourth with 6,304 points, a mark that currently ranks 47th nationally in NCAA Division II.
Friday's middle-distance races provided a meaningful moment for Adam King, who closed out his APU career with a lifetime best of 1:52.00 in the men's 800m, crossing the line with poise in his final collegiate race.
Saturday's slate saw a wave of momentum for the Cougar sprinters and relays. In the women's 400m, Maxime Wassmer dropped an outdoor season best of 47.24, now ranked #17 in Division II, putting him in the mix for a potential nationals berth.
The meet concluded in dramatic fashion with a blistering performance from the women's 4x400m relay team. The quartet of Trinity Miller, Olivia Alexandre, Kiayra Holmes, and Alayna Verner powered their way to a time of 3:38.03—the #7 mark in Division II this season and the third-fastest time in APU program history.
Later in the day, Olivia Alexandre continued her breakout season in the 1500m, clocking a personal best of 4:22.75. That mark now sits #5 all-time in APU history and ranks her #20 in Division II heading into national selections.
With multiple athletes improving their standing and making their case for NCAA Championship entries, the Cougars look to carry their momentum into the national spotlight later this month.