Junior Runner Shatters Own Record by 7 Seconds at BU Meet

Union College junior Annabel Dobash just proved that beating your personal best never gets old. She smashed her own school record in the 5,000 meters, shaving more than seven seconds off her previous time at a major Boston competition.

Dobash crossed the finish line in 18:23.80 at the John Thomas Terrier Classic in Boston on Friday, breaking the program record she already held. The performance qualified her for two championship meets and showed what happens when hard work meets the right moment.

The Union College women's track team faced tough Division I, II and III competition at Boston University's Track and Tennis Center. But Dobash wasn't the only Garnet Charger making waves that afternoon.

Junior Ashley Sheldon jumped her way to fourth place out of 20 competitors in the high jump, clearing 1.68 meters on her second attempt. After a shaky start needing three tries at her opening height, she found her rhythm and soared.

Sophomore Kyleigh Record and first-year Kate Monaco both earned postseason qualifying times in the 800 meters. Record clocked 2:21.18 to secure her spot at the AARTFC Championships, while Monaco's 2:26.57 earned her a place at Liberty Leagues.

First-year Eilis McKenna posted her best mile time of the season at 5:27.68. Sophomore Epephanie LaBoy rounded out the team effort with a 11.26-meter throw in the weight throw event.

Why This Inspires

College athletics often gets lost in the headlines dominated by professional sports, but these athletes show pure dedication. Dobash didn't just break a record—she broke her own record, proving she's constantly pushing herself to new heights.

The entire team showed up ready to compete against schools with bigger budgets and more resources. They earned their qualifying times and personal bests through grit and teamwork, representing Union College with pride on a big stage.

These young women are balancing academics, training, and competition while chasing dreams that matter deeply to them. That kind of commitment deserves celebration, whether you finish first or 157th.

The Garnet Chargers head to the Utica Blue and Orange Invitational next, carrying momentum from a day when personal records fell and championship dreams moved closer to reality.