Members of Biola’s track and field team were at Azusa Pacific University this week for the Azusa Pacific Bryan Clay Invitational. With GSAC championships looming, the meet provided valuable competitive experience.

Junior thrower Juan Flores had a good day, measuring 44-03.25 in the 16lb shot put and 40.42m in the two kilogram discuss. Also on the men’s side, sophomore Ryan Hanson had a solid showing, finishing at 53.12m with the 800g javelin.

“I loved the meet at APU” Flores said, “I hope we can continue to compete at that meet in the future.”

Junior Kelsey Gasner ran the 3000m steeplechase, finishing in 11:17:25. Sophomore thrower Naomi Sornoso had throws of 35-03.00 in the four kilogram shot put and 29.01m in the one kilogram discuss. Also for the women, junior Kesslyn Martin threw the 600g javelin 29.79 meters, and junior Elisa Walker tossed her four kilogram shot put 23-03.50.

“The meet went great,” Walker said. “There was a huge turnout and there was a great sense of sportsmanship.”

Gasner was a leader on the women’s Cross Country team, and serves in the same role with track and field.

“Each branch of the team … we have all proven our abilities this year through hard work and perseverance,” she said, “I believe Biola track and field has a good shot at placing high this year.”

Walker talked about the friendly atmosphere of the meet.

“Even though APU is our rival,” Walker said, “it is amazing how God brings us together as brothers and sisters in Christ. All in all, the meet was a success.”

Biola will now get back to work in preparing for the GSAC Championships April 23-24 in Santa Barbara.