The Marist men's outdoor track and field team kicked off their 2026 season at the Fred Hardy Invitational, achieving 11 top-10 finishes amid challenging weather conditions. Amari Mathis led the team with standout performances, winning the 200-meter dash in 21.52 seconds and placing second in the 100-meter dash at 10.88 seconds. The distance events highlighted Marist's competitiveness, with three runners finishing in the top five of the 5,000-meter run, including Sanjith Nomula in third place. The team also excelled in field events, particularly with Daniel Vargas's third place in pole vault, clearing 3.85 meters (12 feet, 7.5 inches). Overall, the Red Foxes showcased their depth and talent, setting a strong foundation for the season ahead.

By the Numbers
  • 11 top-10 finishes by the Marist team.
  • Amari Mathis finished 1st in the 200-meter dash (21.52 seconds) and 2nd in the 100-meter dash (10.88 seconds).
  • Sanjith Nomula placed 3rd in the 5,000-meter run with a time of 15:03.07.
State of Play
  • The Marist team exhibited strong performances in both track and field events despite challenging conditions of high temperatures and strong winds.
  • The distance events revealed the team's depth, with three competitors securing top-five spots in the 5,000-meter run.
What's Next

The Red Foxes will compete next at the Raleigh Relays hosted by NC State, where they'll aim to build on their successful season opener and continue to enhance their individual and team performances.

Bottom Line

Marist's opening performance at the Fred Hardy Invitational sets a promising tone for the season, especially with key athletes like Mathis and Nomula demonstrating their potential. Continued momentum and focus will be essential for success in upcoming meets.