Virginia picks up a pair of wins on second day of Virginia Tech Invitational

Posted on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022, 8:54 pm

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Courtesy UVA Media Relations

Highlighted by event wins from Bex Hawkins and Claire Frazier Bolton, Virginia’s men’s and women’s track teams put on a strong performance in the final day of competition at the Virginia Tech Invitational.

Bex Hawkins kicked things off for the Hoos with an impressive performance in the high jump. Her mark of 1.76m (5’9.5”) tied a personal best and earned her first place in the event. Hawkins’ win was the first of the meet for the Cavaliers. Hawkins currently ranks seventh on Virginia’s all-time performance list.

Sophomore Claire Frazier Bolton picked up another win for the Cavaliers in the 800m. In her first collegiate attempt at the event, Bolton raced to a time of 2:12.75 to claim first-place.

Maria Deaviz placed third in the shot put with her mark of 15.72m (51’7”). Ashley Anumba followed in fifth for the Hoos with her mark of 14.90m (48’10.75”).

On the men’s side, Claudio Romero opened his season with a third-place finish in the shot put as he reached a mark of 17.54m (57’6.5”).

Jada Seaman placed second in the 200m dash as she clocked in at 24.58. Kayla Bonnick followed in ninth-place at 25.18.

In the men’s long jump, Heldi Valikaj finished in seventh with his mark of 7.22m (23’8.25”). Ayende Watson came in tenth at 7.02m (23’.5”).

From Director of Track and Field Vin Lananna:

“Our sprinters, jumpers, and throwers had a great first meet. We had an opportunity to capitalize on our strengths and identify areas to improve over the season. I was proud of our women and men. We are looking forward to next weekend.”

Up Next 

Virginia will return to the Rector Field House on Friday, Jan. 21 to compete in the Hokie Invitational.