SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Fresno Pacific track and field team traveled over to Westmont to compete in the Warriors Relays on Valentine's Day. Both teams dominated in the track meet, claiming first place among seven teams and having twelve student-athletes who earned first-place finishes.

"This was an impressive showing at our final meet before the outdoor season begins," said head coach Robert Foster. "The team will compete at our home meet next week and we look forward to a successful season."

The 'Birds had a strong showing right off the bat. In the 300 meters, key returners Shemar Palmer (33.31) and Kenahdi Haslip (39.61) finished first for the 'Birds. Riley Allen, Mikiyla Royal, and Iyanna Fuller captured the top three spots in the 60 meters. Royal continued her strong day with a brilliant showing in the 150 meters, coming in at 18.07.

Avril Mendoza narrowly finished second in the 60 hurdles before bouncing back to claim the title in the 300 hurdles with a winning time of 43.60. Emma O'Neil and Cyan Haslip followed closely behind, taking second and third. On the men's side, Jonathan Biffle led the charge in the 60 hurdles (8.10) and the 300 hurdles (37.44).

The Sunbirds were equally strong in the field events. Brooklyn Epperley achieved victories in all three of her events – shot put (12.03m), discus (41.82m), and weight throw (14.58m). Chavez Grey collected not one, but two event wins in the discus and the shot put. Eric Romero claimed victory in the  weight throw and moved to No. 3 on the FPU's all-time list.

In jumps, Malachi Carrasco cleared 2.00 meters to win the high jump and Aamir Smith soared to a first-place finish in the long jump, capping off a well-rounded meet for the Sunbirds.

The women's team scored 125.5 points overall, outscoring UC Santa Barbara by a 50-point margin. Whereas, the men's team collected 120.5 points and beat out Westmont by eight points.

NEXT UP: The 'Birds host the only home meet of the season from February 20-21^st. Come down to Fresno to cheer on your Sunbirds at the Sunbird Invitational!

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