74th TSU Relays
Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson
HOUSTON, Texas — If you blinked, you might've missed it—but the North American University Stallions made a statement where it matters most: the relay lane.
The Men's 4x200m Relay Team—Uros Bekcic, Kegwon Palm, Nicholas Hatchett, and Jason Reeves—ran like a unit on a mission, capturing 1st place with a time of 1:39.76 at the 74th TSU Relays. From the opening leg to the anchor, it was clean handoffs, controlled speed, and championship composure.
That's how you set the tone.
And once that tone was set, the Stallions carried that same energy across the meet.
Sprint & Hurdle Highlights
Junior leader Kegwon Palm delivered a strong all-around showing, clocking 11.28 in the 100m and 15.90 in the 110m hurdles, continuing to prove he's one of the most versatile athletes in the conference. His performance earned him USCAA and RRAC Athlete of the Week nominations, putting the league on notice.
Senior Jayden Jackson added depth in the sprint corps with an 11.60 finish in the 100m, while also contributing in the long jump and relay pool—showing early signs of being a key piece for the future.
Field Events – Blanks Delivers
Senior Aaderius Blanks answered the call in the field, placing 5th in the long jump with a mark of 6.11m (20-00.50). That performance didn't go unnoticed, as he was named RRAC Men's Field Athlete of the Week, giving the Stallions top billing in the conference.
Distance Development
Freshman Tyler Johns put together a demanding meet schedule, competing in three events. His standout moment came in the 5000m, where he secured 8th place with a personal best of 18:17.32—a clear sign of growth and endurance at the collegiate level.
Relay Unit Stays Competitive
The 4x100m relay team (Palm, Bekcic, Hammond, Jackson) fought through adjustments to place 5th with a time of 44.38, continuing to build chemistry in a highly competitive field.
The Bigger Picture
Despite a few lineup setbacks and DNS results, the Stallions showed resilience and depth. When the lights were on, they responded—highlighted by a relay championship performance and multiple conference recognitions. On the sidelines, it felt more like a family gathering than a competition. Head Coach Kenneth Apande, Assistant Coach NAU 2x All-American alumnus Jesse Adams, and legendary Olympian Carl Lewis were all on hand, cheering on every Stallion. With the only real competition being the clock and the distance tape, the atmosphere was full of encouragement, energy, and pride for the team's performances.
Conference Recognition
In track and field, relays are about trust, timing, and execution.
And this weekend in Houston, the Stallions proved they've got all three.
The baton has been passed—now it's about keeping the momentum.
Â
Gallery: NAU Track & Field @74th TSU Relays
