The Gardner-Webb track and field team is sending three athletes to the 2026 NCAA East Regional Championships after a stellar outdoor season. Paige Boyd will compete in the women's high jump, celebrating her first regional appearance after winning the Big South Championship with a height of 1.74 meters. Quentin Peterson, returning to regional competition, aims to build on his successful indoor season and recent Big South titles in shot put and discus throw. Joshua Powell is set to make his debut at the regionals after a commendable performance in the men's long jump, recording a top distance of 7.48 meters at the conference championship.

By the Numbers
  • Paige Boyd cleared 1.74 meters, making her a Big South Champion.
  • Quentin Peterson set a school record in shot put with 19.60 meters and won the discus with 55.68 meters.
  • Joshua Powell's long jump mark of 7.70 meters is the sixth-best in Big South history.
Yes, But

While the athletes have shown remarkable performances, they face stiff competition at the NCAA East Regional Championships, where they must raise their game against elite athletes from across the region.

State of Play
  • Regional championships start with Powell's long jump at 6:00 pm on May 27th, followed by Peterson's shot put at 6:30 pm.
  • Boyd's high jump events are scheduled over the following weekend, adding to the anticipation for her competition.
What's Next

The results from the Regional Championships will determine if these athletes qualify for the National Championships in June, where they would compete against the best in college track and field.

Bottom Line

Gardner-Webb's track and field representatives are poised to make an impact at the upcoming regional meet, with each athlete seeking to build on their record-breaking performances and push for a spot at the national level.