Utica, NY- The Mount Saint Mary College Knights men's and women's track and field teams kicked off the indoor spring semester in impressive fashion at the Utica University Blue and Orange Invitational. Both squads showcased talent, with several highlights across individual performances.

Head Coach Fred Callo expressed his satisfaction with the early showing, stating, "Nice start to the indoor spring semester by both the men and women's teams." He particularly commended Lily La Rocca and Raina Quinones for their personal bests in the women's shot put, and Lily O'Brien for breaking the PENT record with a "solid day in all 5 events."

On the women's side, Vanessa Mleczko and Faith Welsh battled valiantly in the 60M (31st and 25th place, respectively), while Maria Baldwin led the charge in the 200M (18th place). Sarah Kannenberg posted a commendable 22nd place finish in the 800M, and Kaitlin Hansen showcased her versatility with a 12th place finish in the 60M hurdles.

The women's throwing events saw Lindsey Medina (15th in shot put, 18th in weight throw) and La Rocca (32nd in shot put, 35th in weight throw) demonstrate their strength. However, it was O'Brien who stole the show, putting together a remarkable Pentathlon performance of 60M hurdles (515 points), high jump (544 points), shot put (288 points), long jump (374 points), and 800M (431 points) for a total of 2152 points – a new school record!

The men's team saw Jordan Wallace and Ramasoj Williams compete fiercely in the 60M and 200M sprints, while Christopher Christiano impressed with a top-five finish in the 800M (5th place) and a solid showing in the 400M (18th place).

Overall, the Blue and Orange Invitational served as a promising springboard for the Knights as they gear up for their next challenge: the Pioneer Fast Trax Invitational at Utica University on February 3rd. With impressive individual performances and a positive team spirit, the Mount Saint Mary College Knights are poised for a successful indoor season.