AKRON, Ohio – The West Liberty University men's and women's track & field teams wrapped up competition Friday at the Northeast Ohio Open with an impressive two-day showing, highlighted by multiple event wins and a strong collection of top finishes against a deep field.

West Liberty made its biggest statement on the track, sweeping both the men's and women's 4x100-meter relays. The Hilltoppers claimed the women's title in 48.23 before the men followed with a winning time of 41.98.

In distance competition, the Hilltoppers dominated the women's 3000-meter steeplechase with a 1-2 finish. Ally Hicks led the way with a first-place time of 12:09.22, while Katie Rutherford secured runner-up honors in 12:25.06.

The field events also proved to be a strength for West Liberty throughout the meet. Ky'Ara Ross paced a 1-2 finish in the women's long jump with a winning mark of 5.85 meters, followed by Sierra Lanham in second at 5.37 meters. On the men's side, Ethan Furbee turned in a runner-up finish in the high jump, clearing 1.90 meters.

In the throws, Brooklyn Lucas delivered a third-place finish in the women's javelin (32.65m), while Seth Wisman placed fifth in the men's javelin and added an eighth-place showing in the high jump.

West Liberty added more top finishes across the meet, including a third-place effort from Sierra Lanham in the women's 100-meter dash and a third-place finish from Dominick Gagum in the men's pole vault. John Bowen also tied for fourth in the same event.

On the track, Michael Niggemyer recorded a fifth-place finish in the men's 3000-meter steeplechase, while Lexi Wynn added a fifth-place showing in the women's 5,000 meters to round out the top performances. 





West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.