Track and field teams from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Southeast Missouri State University delivered strong performances during the opening day of the PNC Lenny Lyles Invitational in Louisville, Kentucky. Meanwhile, the University of Memphis withdrew due to severe winter weather impacting travel from Tennessee.
The PNC Lenny Lyles Invitational kicked off on January 30, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky, drawing competitors from several collegiate programs for a day of track and field events. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) wrapped up day one of the meet, alongside their participation in the Dr. Rick McGuire Invitational, with standout performances noted among their athletes. Key SIUE participants included Tyler Bell, Konnor Bouman, Simon McClaine, Grant Milbrath, and Konrad Sacha on the men's side, while Kaylee Allen, Mia Jackson, Allison Sanders, Cassidy Short, and Teagan Sullivan represented the women.
Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) Redhawks also competed vigorously, securing a handful of top-10 finishes. Notable performers from SEMO were Marshall Swadley, Anna Thomason, Connor Moore, Brianna Dixon, Nova Ojutkangas, Liberty Blackburn, Trenton Braswell, Jake Cannon, Jonas Davis, and Kani Smith. The event highlighted competitive spirit despite challenging conditions.
In a related development, the University of Memphis Tigers announced their withdrawal from the invitational. Citing hazardous road conditions from a recent winter storm in the Memphis area, the program opted not to travel to Louisville. This decision affected both men's and women's teams, with their next event scheduled for February 6.
These meets underscore the resilience of collegiate track and field amid weather disruptions, focusing on athlete safety and performance.
