The University of Minnesota Duluth men's and women's indoor track and field teams both claimed team titles at the Vanessa Seljeskog Classic in St. Paul, Minnesota. The men's team scored 168.5 points to dominate their division, while the women won with 110 points. Multiple athletes set meet records and personal bests during the competition.
The Vanessa Seljeskog Classic, held at Macalester College's Leonard Center, showcased strong performances from the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs on January 25, 2026. Both the men's and women's teams emerged victorious, marking a successful start to their indoor season.
In the men's events, senior Brock Unger won the 60m dash with a time of 7.04 seconds. Freshman Nolan Bien claimed first in the 60m hurdles at 8.38 seconds, a personal record that ranks as the 94th fastest in NCAA Division II this season. Junior Brayden Brakke took the 200m in 22.60 seconds, and sophomore Billy Auvin set a meet record in the 400m with 50.11 seconds. Senior Fin Youberg rounded out the distance wins with a 1:57.41 victory in the 800m.
Field events also shone for the men, as Will Heydt established a meet record in the long jump at 6.88 meters. In the shot put, Jackson Weston finished second with 16.33 meters, the 35th longest throw nationally, while junior Noah Mitchell placed third at 15.84 meters, ranking 49th in the nation.
The women's team excelled in relays and middle-distance races. The 4x400m relay team of Avary Fitzpatrick, Emily Bastian, Emily Beaham, and Kate Fitzgerald set a meet record at 3:59.81. Senior Madeline Verkerke won the 800m in a meet-record 2:15.43, and senior Kira Almsberger took second in the 3000m with a personal record that surpassed the previous meet standard.
These results highlight the Bulldogs' depth and preparation. UMD will next compete at the Mark Shuck Open in Mankato or the St. Olaf Invitational in Northfield on the following Friday.
