AZUSA, Calif. — BYU distance runners Jenna Hutchins and Taylor Lovell each earned program top-10 marks in both the 10,000-meters and 3,000-meter steeplechase on day one of the Bryan Clay Invitational.
“We had some great things happen tonight,” said associate director of track and field/women’s distance head coach Diljeet Taylor. “I’m very proud of the effort from my women tonight and we as a team are looking forward to two more days of great competition.”
Sophomore Jenna Hutchins debuted in the women's 10,000m, crossing the line in 32:52.01 to place at No.3 on the program top-10 board. She finished second in the field, only finishing behind Parker Valby of Florida who clocked a new NCAA record in the event of 30:50.43.
"I am very happy with how I performed in my first 10,000m," said Hutchins. "It was a fun experience and I’m excited to keep improving. I was so grateful to both Coach Taylor and my teammates for cheering me on, especially when I was running by myself in the final stretch."
Sophomore Taylor Lovell ran 9:51.57 in the women's 3,000m steeplechase and finished ninth overall. Lovell earned a new No.7 program top-10 mark.
"I am so grateful that I was able to toe the line tonight," said Lovell. "It was such a great experience and I can't wait to work for the next race."
On the men's side, both Caleb Johnson and Dalton Mortensen earned personal bests in their respective events. Johnson clocked 8:56.12 in the open section of the men's 3000m steeplechase. Mortensen finished the men's 10,000m in 29:36.63.
The Cougars will return to action Friday morning for day two of the Bryan Clay Invitational with the open section of the women's 10,000m set to begin at 8:05 a.m. PT. Live stream broadcast is available through FloTrack and live results are through Finished Results.