AUGUSTA, Ga. – The next chapter in Augusta University cross country and track & field history is being written by one of its own. Hans Troyer, a decorated Jaguar alumnus and former graduate assistant for the men's and women's programs, is the subject of a newly released documentary after bursting onto the national ultrarunning scene with a course-record performance at the USA Track & Field 50 Mile Championships.
Troyer captured the national title with a time of 5:16:14 in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania—shattering the previous course record by nearly 12 minutes. The 50-mile route included over 5,000 feet of vertical climb, and Troyer averaged a 6:19 mile pace throughout the race. His rise in the trail running world has been nothing short of meteoric, following recent wins at the Bandera 100k, Way Too Cool 50k, and a runner-up finish at the Canyons 100k, which earned him a coveted Golden Ticket to the Western States 100.
Watch the full documentary on Hans Troyer's journey:
"The documentary showed Hans' personality really well and I'm really happy to see that his story is getting the attention that it deserves," said Head Coach Jacob Burgamy. "Hans did a ton for our program both as an athlete and an assistant coach, and it's awesome to see him going on to do such big things afterwards on the professional level. Excited to see how he performs at Western States later this month. He makes our program very proud."
A consistent presence for Augusta from 2018–2023, Troyer helped lead the Jaguars to four consecutive Peach Belt Conference cross country titles and multiple NCAA National Championship appearances. He earned PBC All-Conference honors in both cross country and track & field, was named to the PBC Team of Academic Distinction each season, and still holds the school record in the 3,000m steeplechase.
Originally from Newnan, Georgia, and a graduate of Trinity Christian School, Troyer continues to train while representing Augusta's tradition of excellence at the professional level. While his post-collegiate success stems from his own dedication and consistency, his story parallels the steady progress of Augusta's distance programs. His development from collegiate athlete to rising ultramarathoner reflects the strength of the foundation being built at Augusta and serves as a reminder of the impact student-athletes can continue to make beyond their time on campus.
Augusta's cross country and track & field programs have seen significant growth in recent years, highlighted by the upcoming addition of men's and women's indoor track & field in 2025–26, expanding year-round competition for the Jaguars.
As Troyer prepares for his 100-mile debut at Western States, Augusta will be following his journey with pride—watching a former student-athlete continue to pursue big goals and represent the program well at the next level.
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