AZUSA, Calif. – Augusta University runners made their mark on the national stage this weekend at the Bryan Clay Invitational, the largest and fastest collegiate distance meet in the country. Competing against top-tier athletes from powerhouse programs, Emily McBride broke her own school record in the 3000m steeplechase, while Madison Kennedy came just seconds shy of setting a new Augusta standard in the 10,000-meter run. McBride also returned to the track later in the weekend to post a competitive time in the 5000m.
McBride clocked a time of 10:41.28 in a loaded steeplechase field that featured over 90 runners from across NCAA Divisions I and II, including competitors from BYU, Texas, LSU, Iowa State, Boise State, and Purdue. The meet, held annually at Azusa Pacific University in Southern California, is known for its world-class competition, electric atmosphere, and ideal racing conditions. Her performance placed her 47th overall and broke the school record she previously set at the Raleigh Relays in March of this year.
McBride doubled back to run in the 5000m, where she finished in 17:54.18 against a deep field that included athletes from Louisville, UC Davis, Arkansas State, Montana State, New Mexico, and others. It marked another strong performance for the Augusta senior, who continues to compete at a high level across multiple events.
In the 10,000m, Kennedy delivered a gutsy run, finishing in 37:08.13 in a field that featured elite athletes from LSU, Oklahoma, Grand Valley State, Texas Tech, and more. Her performance ranks as one of the best in program history and was within striking distance of the school record, reinforcing her position as one of Augusta's top distance runners.
The Bryan Clay Invitational attracts national champions, All-Americans, and Olympic hopefuls each spring, offering a stage for elite performances. The Jaguars embraced the challenge and came away with two of the best individual showings in program history.
The majority of the Jaguar track & field programs will compete at the Georgia Tech Invitational April 18-19.
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