NCCU Track & Field Shines at Pre-Nationals, Prepares for MEAC Championships

Virginia Beach, Va. – North Carolina Central University’s men’s and women’s track and field teams recently completed a preparatory competition at the Pre-National Indoor Meet, hosted by Norfolk State at the Virginia Beach Sports Center on February 13-14. This meet served as a final tune-up before the 2026 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Indoor Championships.

Strong Performances Highlight Pre-National Meet

The Eagles showcased notable athletic achievements, securing two first-place finishes. Rachel Key-White excelled in the women’s high jump, and the women’s distance medley relay team also claimed victory.

Key-White Sets Personal Best

Rachel Key-White achieved a new personal record in the women’s high jump, clearing 1.72m. This performance tied her with Hampton’s Emmani Shaw for first place, with both athletes successfully clearing the height on their second attempts. Neither competitor was able to clear 1.77m.

Distance Medley Team Sets Meet Record

The women’s 4000m distance medley team delivered an impressive performance, finishing with a time of 12:31.24. This time not only secured them first place but also established a new meet record and currently ranks second on the MEAC’s performance list. The team comprised Laila Jackson, Kayla Johnson, Victoria Swepson, and Navi McDowell.

Did You Know? The women’s 4000m distance medley team’s time of 12:31.24 set a new meet record at the Pre-National Indoor Meet.

Additional Top Finishes

Several other Eagles athletes achieved top-three finishes. Melanne Sutton placed second in the women’s 60m with a time of 7.46. Zion Amadi secured third place in the men’s 400m, finishing in 47.75. Emmanuel Paddyfote finished second in the men’s mile, clocking in at 4:15.89. Alitza Dennard earned a third-place finish in the women’s 5000m with a time of 18:46.81. The men’s 4000m distance medley team finished third with a time of 10:49.14.

Expert Insight: The strong performances at the Pre-National Indoor Meet suggest North Carolina Central’s track and field teams are well-positioned as they head into the MEAC Indoor Championships, indicating a focused and competitive approach to the upcoming event.

Looking Ahead to the MEAC Championships

The MEAC Indoor Championships are scheduled to take place February 22-23 at the Virginia Beach Sports Center, the same venue as the Pre-National Meet. Tickets are available for purchase HERE. The team’s performance at the Pre-National meet could translate into success at the championships, but competition will be fierce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What events did North Carolina Central compete in at the Pre-National Indoor Meet?

North Carolina Central’s men’s and women’s track and field teams competed in events including the 60m, 400m, mile, 5000m, high jump, and distance medley relays.

Who were the individual winners for North Carolina Central at the meet?

Rachel Key-White won the women’s high jump, and the women’s 4000m distance medley team secured first place.

When and where will the MEAC Indoor Championships be held?

The MEAC Indoor Championships will be held on February 22-23 at the Virginia Beach Sports Center in Virginia Beach.

What impact will these recent results have on the team’s confidence heading into the MEAC Championships?