Runner Breaks Record Twice in One Season at Florida Meet

Andrew Kiplagat doesn't just break records. He makes a habit of it.

The Bethune-Cookman runner clocked 14:24.25 in the men's 5K at the Legends of Alachua County Invitational in Gainesville, Florida, smashing the program record for the second time this season. His blazing time earned him second place overall and continues a remarkable track season for the Wildcats.

Kiplagat wasn't the only Wildcat making waves on the track. The men's team collected eight top-three finishes, including a first-place victory in the 4x400 relay with Jonathan Gaines, Ethan Sharpe, Shanard Walker, and Jancent Wallace crossing the line at 3:15.65.

Ashton Matthews soared to second in the high jump with a 1.94-meter mark. Michael Carter landed second in the long jump at 7.32 meters, while Farai Mhende secured third in the triple jump with a 14.43-meter performance.

The women's team delivered strong performances too. The 4x400 relay squad of Haely Grant, Betina Jean, Zion Harvey, and Kavay Johnson claimed second place, showing the depth of talent across the program.

Darryn Hough jumped 1.56 meters to take third in the women's high jump. The weekend reflected months of training, early mornings, and the kind of dedication that turns good athletes into record breakers.

Why This Inspires

Programs like Bethune-Cookman prove that excellence isn't reserved for powerhouse schools with unlimited budgets. These athletes show up, put in the work, and rewrite what's possible for their program with every race and every jump.

Kiplagat's double record-breaking season tells a bigger story about setting goals and then raising the bar on yourself. Each time he steps onto the track, he's not just racing against others but pushing past his own previous best.

For young athletes watching from the stands or scrolling on their phones, these Wildcats demonstrate that records exist to be broken and limits are just temporary markers.

The team heads into the rest of the season with momentum, confidence, and proof that their hard work translates into real results when it matters most.