AZUSA, Calif. / LA VERNE, Calif. – Griffon Track & Field competed across two meets in California on Thursday and Friday, taking part in the Bryan Clay Invitational and the Leopard Invitational, gaining opportunities to race against some of the best competition in the nation.

At the Leopard Invitational held Thursday and Friday, Pau Valderrama turned in a strong performance in the men's 5,000m, placing fourth with a time of 14:33.74. Mason Orscheln added a 34th-place finish in the event with a time of 15:12.30.

Usman Tufa competed in the men's 3,000m steeplechase, placing 14th overall with a time of 9:29.65.

At the Bryan Clay Invitational, events held Thursday and Friday saw several Griffons post solid performances. Leading the way, Abby Kinney placed 24th in the women's 10,000m with a time of 38:43.54.

On the men's side, Pau Valderrama clocked a 9:08.58 in the 3,000m steeplechase to finish 53rd while hitting the national standard, while Kayden Crigger posted a 14:51.80 in the 5,000m, placing 60th overall.

In middle-distance action, Meagan Smith recorded a time of 2:19.71 in the women's 800m, and Angelo Baez-Mahr finished the men's 800m in 1:57.63.

Interim head coach Sean Gosewisch shared his thoughts on the two-day trip at the Bryan Clay Invitational and the Leopard Invitational, noting, "Overall it was a successful trip. It was highlighted by Pau hitting the national standard in the steeplechase, but I thought all athletes put forth a good effort and took advantage of the top-tier competition."

What's Next
The Griffons wrap up a busy weekend of competition on Sunday, April 19 at the Pittsburg State Tune-Up Meet in Pittsburg, Kansas. Events will take place at Carnie Smith Stadium/Prentice Gudgen Track as MWSU continues preparation for the upcoming MIAA Championships.