The Georgia Tech track and field teams are set to compete in the 2026 NCAA East First Round in Lexington, Kentucky, from May 27-30. The event will see top performers vying for advancement, with the top 12 in each event moving on. Key athletes include sophomore Tahir Hines, who aims for a strong start in the hammer throw, and Lottie Chappell, making her mark in the 1500m. Fellow teammates Billy Carlton and Taylor Wade will compete in the 3000m and 5000m, respectively, with both athletes boasting impressive season records.

By the Numbers
  • Tahir Hines set a program record with a 64.50m throw.
  • Lottie Chappell's 1500m time of 4:16.53 is just 0.19 seconds off the program record.
  • Billy Carlton's 3000m time of 8:38.49 ranks among the top 30 nationally.
  • Kendall Ward cleared 1.79m for her personal best in high jump.
State of Play
  • Georgia Tech aims to send athletes to Eugene for a third consecutive season.
  • The men's team seeks its first national championship entry since 2023.
  • Six athletes representing Tech will be making their NCAA postseason debuts.
What's Next

The performance of Georgia Tech's athletes in the NCAA East First Round will determine their progression to the national championships, with results expected by early June. Continued fundraising through the Full Steam Ahead initiative aims to enhance future athletic programs and facilities.

Bottom Line

Georgia Tech鈥檚 track and field teams are primed for a competitive postseason, showcasing a mix of seasoned athletes and promising newcomers. Their performance at the NCAA East First Round will be critical, not just for individual hopes, but for the program's broader ambitions in collegiate athletics.