Waldorf Warriors Men’s Track and Field Shines with Personal Bests at GPAC Championships

HASTINGS, Neb. — The Waldorf University Warriors men's track and field team made a strong statement at the GPAC Outdoor Championships this past weekend, traveling to Hastings College and returning with five personal records, two standout relay performances, and an all-conference finish that highlighted the team's determination and growth.

Leading the charge was sophomore Marquis Simpson, who delivered a breakout performance in the long jump, soaring 7.03 meters to place 4th overall and earn All-Conference honors. The mark not only smashed his previous best but also landed him second all-time in Waldorf school history. Simpson wasn't done there — he also cleared 1.86 meters in the high jump, a personal best that moved him into fifth all-time at Waldorf.

"Our gentlemen competed well this weekend," said head coach Janna Langrell. "Both of our relay teams ran well and we had some big PR's in the field events. Most notably, Marquis came into the meet seeded 13th and ended up finishing 4th place, earning all-conference honors. It has been so special to see his hard work pay off."

Isaiah Cote also etched his name into the program's top ranks, clocking 4:18.59 in the 1500 meters, a personal best that ranks seventh all-time for the Warriors.

In the throws, James Robey and Cody Mayer each stepped up in the javelin. Robey hit a mark of 38.31 meters, while Mayer unleashed a 41.31-meter throw, which now ranks seventh all-time at Waldorf.

The Warriors also fielded two strong relay teams. The 4x100-meter relay team of Horton, Ramos, Birri, and Fernandez posted a time of 43.06 seconds, showing promising speed and chemistry. In the 4x400-meter relay, Horton, Fernandez, Ramos, and Dominique crossed the line in 3:27.22, capping off a weekend of consistent effort and competitive edge.

The performance at the GPAC Championships marked another step forward for a growing Warriors program, with several athletes pushing into the program's historical leaderboard and gaining valuable postseason experience.

Men's Results:

Cote, Isaiah - 4:18.59 (1500m)

Fernandez, Sunel- 11.10 (100m) / 22.88 (200m) 

Horton, Xzayvier -  11.06 (100m) / 22.78 (200m)

Mayer, Cody - 41.31m (JT) 

Robey, James - 38.31m (JT)

Simpson, Marquis - 1.86m (HJ) / 7.03m (LJ)

Yao, Cooper - 13.19m (SP)