DCCC Track and Field on Pace at Danny Curran Invitational

Chester, PA—The Delaware County Community College Phantoms hit their stride in their second track and field competition of the season at the Danny Curran Invitational at Widener University last weekend, anchored by strong debuts in the women's triple jump and men's 4x100m relay and a plethora of new records and rankings.

"I am truly impressed with how the athletes showed up," said Head Coach Cara Fordenbacher. "This meet was huge, boasting talent across all three NCAA divisions and several competitive NJCAA schools, and my athletes were not phased."

Stepping up to the pit Friday night for her first go at the triple jump in collegiate competition, Fatumata Kaba delivered an NJCAA DIII national-lead performance, jumping 11.25m. Progressing with each attempt to her final mark, Kaba placed fourth in the meet among a field of DII and DIII athletes. "It's a good season opener and it makes me look forward to the rest of my jumps during the season," Kaba said.

Saturday's competition began with a bang and a baton with the season debut of the men's 4x100m relay. (Tre) Fred McCray, Aidan Heppard, Daniel McLaughlin, and James Love posted a new school-record performance of 43.56 and a 10th place finish overall.

"Nearly everyone set a personal record or season best, rising to the occasion and proving that the Phantoms are not to be overlooked," Fordenbacher said, spotlighting sophomore Heppard as standout for the day for blasting his previous personal bests in both of his sprint events. Heppard ran a 11.31 100m time, placing 39th, and 22.58 in the 200m for 31st in a deep field of competition.

Dominic Copper took an impressive five seconds off his previous time 400m, running a 55.88 and placing 92nd. "It was thrilling to see all the pieces click for Dominic today in the 400," said Fordenbacher. "He truly looked like he was in his element, and I can't wait to see his continued success in this event."

Daniel McLaughlin dropped his previous school record in the 400m IH, running a time of 58.22. This lifts him to second on the national rankings for the week. "I'm super proud of everyone that competed yesterday at the Danny Curran Invite," McLaughlin said. "It was nice to see people smash their personal records yesterday and get season bests.

"It's also rewarding to see that the work is finally paying off, but our job isn't finished yet," he continued. "I'm excited to get back to work this week and get ready for the Ursinus Festival this Saturday." The Phantoms compete next at the Ursinus College Track and Field Festival with action starting at 10:30am on Saturday, April 5.

"I can't wait to see this momentum continue into the rest of the season and beyond," Fordenbacher enthused.