Evaline Chepkoech and Valentine Jemutai are set to compete for Stephen F. Austin at the NCAA Division I West Regional in Arkansas. Chepkoech will run in the women's 1500m starting at 6:30 PM, while Jemutai's 10,000m race at 9:10 PM will be crucial for qualifying for the 2026 NCAA National Championships in Eugene, Oregon. Both events will be broadcast live, and links for coverage can be accessed at www.SFAjacks.com.

By the Numbers
  • Chepkoech competes in Heat 3 of 4 for the women's 1500m
  • Top 5 finishers in each heat and the next 4 fastest times advance to the quarterfinals
  • Jemutai aims to secure a spot by finishing in the Top 12 of the 10,000m race
State of Play
  • Capping the evening, Hunter Murphy competes in men's high jump on Friday, with the top 12 marks advancing
  • Keyshawn Garcia clocked a strong time of 1:48.30 in men's 800m qualifying, second-fastest in his heat
What's Next

After the first day of events, athletes will look to secure placements on Friday, including Murphy’s high jump and Garcia's 800m quarterfinals. Further qualifying rounds will continue, culminating in opportunities for advancement to the national Championships.

Bottom Line

Chepkoech and Jemutai represent significant chances for SFA to showcase talent at the regionals. Success at this event is critical not only for individual athletes but also for the program's visibility on a national stage.