NEW YORK – Competing against some of the top teams in the nation, Columbia track & field had a strong showing at the Penn State Invitational in State College, Pa., Saturday, as the Lions set three new program records. 

Sophomore QueenDenise Okeke shattered the school record in the triple jump. Okeke, who finished third overall, jumped 12.43m (40'9.5”),  breaking the previous record of 12.16m. It is also the best jump in the Ivy League so far this season.

Junior Justin Holloman had a record on the men's side, as he ran the 200m dash in 22.12 seconds, breaking the old record of 22.27, which was set in 2002. He currently holds the second fastest time in the Ivy League in the event. 

And junior Sharay Hale had another standout, record-breaking performance. In the 200m dash, Hale ran 24.15 seconds, breaking her own record of 24.20. She was also a standout in the 400m dash, as she hit 53.77, which is currently the third fastest time in the nation. 

First-year Tara Richmond took the top spot in the women's high jump, hitting 1.79m (5'10.5”), nearly breaking the school record, and nabbing the top height in the Ivy League. It is also currently the 10th highest jump in the nation. Junior Monique Roberts also jumped well, clearing 1.75m (5'8.75”) and finishing second overall.