The Middle Tennessee men’s track and field team made its highly-anticipated 2024 outdoor debut at the Charlie Thomas Invitational hosted by Mississippi State University from March 16-17. The Blue Raiders had a tremendous showing, earning top-three finishes in several events and showcasing their depth and talent early in the season.
One of the standout performances came from senior distance runner Chris Caldwell, who won the 1,500 meters with a time of 3:45.94. Caldwell’s victory set the tone for the Blue Raiders, demonstrating their strength in middle-distance events.
Another impressive performance came from junior sprinter Kendrick Young, who finished second in the 100 meters with a time of 10.32 seconds and third in the 200 meters with a time of 21.02 seconds. Young’s speed and versatility were on full display, adding valuable points to the team’s overall score.
The Blue Raiders also had a strong showing in the field events, led by senior thrower Tyler Watson. Watson took second place in the shot put with a throw of 18.68 meters (61 feet, 3.5 inches) and third place in the discus with a throw of 52.67 meters (172 feet, 9 inches). His consistent performances earned crucial points for Middle Tennessee.
In the relays, the Blue Raiders’ 4×100-meter team of Young, Camren Young, Eriq Campbell-Smith, and Jayron Armstrong finished third with a time of 40.37 seconds. The team’s chemistry and execution were evident, setting the stage for future success in this event.
Overall, the Charlie Thomas Invitational was a successful start to the outdoor season for the Middle Tennessee men’s track and field team. The Blue Raiders’ depth and talent were on display, and they earned valuable experience in a competitive environment. With several more meets on the horizon, the Blue Raiders are poised to make a strong run for the Conference USA title and beyond.
The team will be back in action next weekend at the Ole Miss Classic in Oxford, Mississippi. The meet will provide another opportunity for the Blue Raiders to fine-tune their performances and continue their quest for success..
