UNC Asheville Bulldogs Dominate at Bulldog Invite

Athletes from UNC Asheville competing in track and field event

News Summary

The UNC Asheville Bulldogs Track and Field team showcased their talent at the Bulldog Invite on April 11-12, 2025. With numerous record-breaking performances including Shemarr Session’s 200m school record and a new school record in the 4x100m relay, the team celebrated an impressive array of achievements. The event also highlighted teamwork and individual excellence, culminating in an exciting atmosphere. The Bulldogs are now preparing for their final regular season meet, poised to continue their streak of record-setting performances.

UNC Asheville Bulldogs Make Waves at the Bulldog Invite!

Asheville, NC – It was a weekend to remember as the UNC Asheville Bulldogs Track and Field team hosted their second annual Bulldog Invite on April 11-12, 2025. The excitement buzzed around the Karl Straus Track, with athletes from various schools converging to see what records would be shattered this season.

Record-Breaking Performances Galore

The Bulldogs kicked off their season with some impressive feats at the 49er Classic held on March 21-22. Jan Málek opened the event by setting a new school record in the men’s 1,500m event, finishing in third place overall with a blazing time of 3:48.89. But the thrills didn’t stop there, as DaMarr Harvey put his skills to the test, securing second place in the men’s 100m in 10.58 seconds, just a whisker away from his own record.

Things got even better for Harvey, who later claimed first place in the men’s 200m at the same event, running it in just 20.88 seconds, a mere .17 seconds shy of his own school record. This stellar performance earned him the title of Big South Conference Men’s Track Athlete of the Week on March 26. Meanwhile, Shemarr Session made waves, finishing ninth in the men’s 110m hurdles and securing the No. 5 spot in the program’s history.

While at the Raleigh Relays on March 28, Málek set another jaw-dropping record in the 3,000m steeple with an astounding time of 8:58.03, surpassing the previous mark by a whopping eight seconds! Not to be outdone, Adam Hessler also reset his school record in the men’s 10,000m, finishing in 29:38.51.

Bulldogs Shine at the Bulldog Invite

The Bulldog Invite truly highlighted the Bulldogs’ talent as they wrapped up the weekend on April 12. Over the two days, the team celebrated not just records but also teamwork, showcasing ten top-five finishes and five personal bests.

Most notably, Shemarr Session broke the school record in the 200m with a winning time of 20.66 seconds, placing him at an impressive No. 18 in the nation. The excitement carried into the relay events, where the Bulldogs set a new school record in the 4x100m relay with a time of 40.01 seconds, thanks to a stellar team performance from Joseph Oliver, DaMarr Harvey, Nkosi Jeju, and Shemarr Session.

The men’s 4x400m relay also brought in first place, finishing in 3:17.73, with Oliver and Harvey again proving their prowess on the track. Meanwhile, Madison Hannah couldn’t be overlooked, winning the women’s discus throw with a distance of 41.32 meters.

A Weekend for Team Spirit and Records

Senior recognition was a heartfelt moment, celebrated on Saturday at 1 pm, and added to the vibrant atmosphere of the Bulldog Invite. Attendees enjoyed delicious food from vendors like Moe’s Southwest Grill and White Rabbit Food Truck, making the event even more memorable with tasty treats.

While the Bulldogs’ women’s 4x100m relay earned third place with a time of 48.81 seconds, the women’s 4x400m team secured a respectable fourth spot with a run of 4:10.08. Adam Graham placed second in the men’s 400m hurdles with a time of 55.78 seconds, while Murielle Jeanite shined in the women’s 400m, attaining a season-best time of 58.14 seconds.

What’s Next for the Bulldogs?

The UNC Asheville Bulldogs are gearing up for their final regular season meet taking place on April 25-26. The team will split their rosters between the Charlotte Invitational and the Catamount Classic, depending on events, aiming to build on their already impressive season.

With a strong display of athleticism and spirit, it’s clear that the Bulldogs are on a path to greatness this season. Let’s keep cheering them on as they strive for more records and unforgettable moments!