Texas A&M Track & Field Team Shines at McFerrin-12 Degree Invitational

Texas A&M athletes showcase their talent at the McFerrin-12 Degree Invitational

News Summary

The Texas A&M track & field team made a striking debut at the McFerrin-12 Degree Invitational, achieving 12 first-place finishes. Notable performances included Auhmad Robinson setting a school record in the men’s 300 meters. The women’s team also excelled, sweeping the podium in the women’s 3,000 meters. Amid heartfelt tributes and record-breaking achievements, the Aggies set an impressive tone for the upcoming season.

Texas A&M Track & Field Team Shines in New Arena at McFerrin-12 Degree Invitational

COLLEGE STATION, TX – This past weekend, the Texas A&M track & field team made history as they took to the R.A. “Murray” Fasken ’38 Indoor Track for the very first time in 2025. It was an action-packed event as the Aggies turned up the heat at the McFerrin-12 Degree Invitational, leaving spectators buzzing with excitement and pride over their remarkable performances.

Record-Breaking Rally

With a total of 12 first-place finishes throughout the meet, the Aggies set the bar high. Among the standout performances, Auhmad Robinson dominated the men’s 300-meter race, smashing the school record with a jaw-dropping time of 32.34 seconds. Not only did he set a new benchmark for Texas A&M, but he also etched his name as the No. 3 all-time collegiate performer in this event. Talk about making a statement!

A Winning Streak

The Aggies continued their impressive streak with nine performances that made it into the top 12 of the program’s history. Carter Bajoit took to the sky to win the men’s high jump title with a clearance of 6 feet, 10.75 inches, proving yet again that Texas A&M is a force to be reckoned with. But it was the men’s 1,000 meters that truly showcased the depth of talent within the team. Cooper Cawthra crossed the finish line first, clocking a remarkable 2:22.57—the second-best time in program history. Close on his heels were teammates Caden Norris and Gilbert Rono, who also had stellar performances, finishing second and third respectively.

400-Meter Magic

The men’s 400 meters was another highlight at the invitational. Antonie Nortje clinched the gold with a personal-best time of 46.12 seconds, paving the way for his teammates Kimar Faquharson and Demarco Escobar, who also earned podium finishes. The excitement didn’t stop there; Gavin Champ wowed the audience in the men’s triple jump, jumping 52 feet, 6 inches, landing him the twelfth-best distance in program history.

Women’s Dominance

Meanwhile, the women’s team had their own moments of glory. They swept the podium in the women’s 3,000 meter, with Megan Roberts leading the charge at 9:38.24. Similarly, the women’s 800 meters featured an impressive showing with Maddie Jones winning at 2:16.09 followed closely by Avery Perkins. The future looks bright for the Aggies!

Debut Success and Team Triumphs

Aleksandr Solovev not only made his collegiate debut but also clinched victory in the men’s pole vault with a clear of 18 feet, 3 inches, marking the second-best performance in A&M’s history. Other highlights included John Baker’s long jump, which soared to 25 feet, 5 inches, pushing him into seventh place on the all-time list, and Kennedy Wade’s strong finish in the women’s 400 meter.

A Grand Sendoff

As if the day hadn’t had enough excitement, the men’s 4x400m relay team sealed the deal with a victory, clocking in at 3:05.80. There was also a heartfelt moment as the event honored Texas A&M Hall of Fame member and Olympic medalist Deon Lendore with a special memorial.

Looking Forward

The Aggies surely made their mark at the McFerrin-12 Degree Invitational, setting the tone for a competitive season ahead. Up next, the team will head to the Corky Classic in Lubbock on January 12, 2025. Fans and supporters can’t wait to see what the talented Aggies will accomplish next!