Bloomington, Ill. – At their first meet of the 2025 season, the Illinois Tech Scarlet Hawks track & field team competed at the I-55 Invitational hosted by Illinois Wesleyan University.
After training all off season, the Hawks were ready to compete. Three top three finishes were recorded by the Hawks as Olivia Jameson claimed first place in high jump with a height of 1.58m, Rachel Brettin claimed third place in the women's 800 meter run with a time of 2:34.95, and Joey Loriso finished in second place in the men's 3,000 meter run with a time of 8:58.86.
Multiple performances landed Hawks in Illinois Tech Indoor Track & Field All-Time list, which included three new school records. On the women's side, Rachel Brettin now holds the school record in the women's 1,200 meter run with a time of 4:09.02 while Kailey Nicholas holds the school record in women's triple jump with 10.30. For the men, Gabe Durazo broke the school record in the men's 1,200 meter run with a time of 3:32.55.
The Hawks next meet will take place in Chicago on Saturday, January 25th, when they take part in the Aurora Grand Prix hosted by Aurora University at the Gately Indoor Track & Field complex. Throwing events will be held at the University of Chicago.
Women's All-Time Updates:
Rachel Brettin – 1,200 Meter Run – 4:09.02 – School Record
Kailey Nicholas – Triple Jump – 10.30m – School Record
Valerie Lending – 1,200 Meter Run – 4:27.05 – 2nd All-time
Annaelle Mukash – 60 Meter Dash – 8.64 – 9th All-time
Rachel Brettin – 800 Meter Run – 2:34.95 – 9th All-time
Men's All-Time Updates:
Gabe Durazo – 1,200 Meter Run – 3:32.55 – School Record
Mason Brewer – 1,200 Meter Run – 3:53.02 – 2nd All-time
Ajibola Claudius-Akinyemi – 60 Meter Dash – 7.22 – 3rd All-time
Joey Loriso – 3,000 Meter Run – 8:58.86 – 3rd All-time
Javier Bernal – Weight Throw – 14.30m – 3rd All-time
Isaiah John – Weight Throw – 12.69m – 4th All-time
Peter Mayer – 200 Meter Dash – 23.53 – 4th All-time
Peter Mayer – 60 Meter Dash – 7.37 – 6th All-time
Head Coach Tyler McQuality's Comments from the I-55 Invitational:
"I am very happy with our first meet; it was great to get a benchmark of where we are individually and collectively. I am excited to get back to work this week and see improvements at a great meet and facility next week!"
Assistant Coach Allayna Gagnard's Comments from the I-55 Invitational:
"The team showed great determination at I-55 this past weekend. They approached their events with a positive attitude, and we are so proud of their performance. Can't wait to see where this season takes them!"
Assistant Coach Brendan Batliner's Comments from the I-55 Invitational:
"Great showing from the team at our first meet. Their preparation and positive attitudes shined bright, and we are excited for the season to come."
