University of Memphis Track and Field Teams Shine at Rhodes Invitational

University of Memphis Track and Field athletes competing at Rhodes Invitational.

News Summary

The University of Memphis Track and Field teams showcased outstanding performances at the Rhodes Invitational on March 14-15, 2025. Despite challenging weather conditions, the Tigers achieved significant victories, with five athletes claiming gold in their respective events. Highlights included impressive long jumps by Alessandro Belluz and Gozie Okafor, alongside remarkable achievements in high jump, pole vault, and javelin throw. With momentum from this event, the team is gearing up for upcoming competitions, including the Ole Miss Classic and Bulldog Alumni Relays.

Memphis Excited as Track and Field Teams Steal the Spotlight at Rhodes Invitational

Memphis, the vibrant city known for its music and culture, recently cheered on the University of Memphis Track and Field teams as they kicked off their outdoor season at the annual Rhodes Invitational held on March 14-15, 2025. Even though the weather had a mind of its own with delays and challenges, the Tigers made quite an impression on the field.

Thunderstorms and Triumphs

The Rhodes College-hosted event opened its doors on Friday at 3:00 p.m. and continued bright and early Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Despite some pocket of adverse weather that tested the competition, a select group of Memphis athletes took to the field and made their mark. In an astonishing display of talent, five Memphis athletes showcased their skills and secured event victories!

Diving into Victories

Let’s talk about who brought home the gold! First up, we have Alessandro Belluz, who stole the show in the men’s long jump, soaring to an impressive distance of 7.03 meters. Not to be outdone, Gozie Okafor shone bright as she claimed victory in the women’s long jump with an incredible jump of 5.16 meters. Meanwhile, Jean Yves Thiemele Marco flaunted his athleticism and jumped his way to first place in the men’s high jump, clearing a height of 1.90 meters. Freshman sensation Ethan Belcher made his debut memorable by winning the pole vault at 4.31 meters — quite an accomplishment for a first collegiate outdoor meet!

And let’s not forget Adela Mullerova, who had her shining moment as she took first place in the javelin throw, throwing an impressive mark of 48.68 meters.

Top Finishes Make a Strong Statement

The thrills didn’t stop there! Our Tigers proved that they meant business with several more top finishes. Freshman Quentin Gentry landed in 2nd place in the men’s long jump at 6.87 meters. In the men’s javelin throw, Ulysses Holbert also secured a commendable 2nd place with a launch of 54.47 meters. Meanwhile, Julia Konigshofer represented well in the women’s javelin throw, finishing in 2nd place with a distance of 44.25 meters. Rounding out this fabulous showcase was Edward O’Brien, who finished 3rd in the men’s javelin throw with a throw of 54.28 meters.

Looking Ahead!

The Memphis Tigers are certainly on a roll! Following their impressive performances at the Rhodes Invitational, they are gearing up for even more competitions at the Ole Miss Classic and Bulldog Alumni Relays on March 21-22, 2025. The excitement is palpable as they continue to chase victory and push their limits!

Join the Tiger Family!

Fans of the Memphis Tigers can stay in the loop about all things Track and Field by visiting their official site and following their social media channels. Dive into this thrilling season with the Tigers and keep cheering them on as they shine bright on the track and field!