Anna Hightower showcased remarkable resilience in sweltering temperatures, securing a new personal best in the 3,000m steeplechase during the NCAA West Preliminary. She finished sixth in her heat with a time of 10:10.88, narrowly missing a spot in the national semifinals. Cary Drake, also a standout, ended her season with a time of 10:28.34 in the same event. Skye Ellis and Ava Criniti also raced, with Ellis finishing ninth in the 1,500m and Criniti completing the 5,000m in 16:10.79. Overall, Northwestern wrapped up a successful outdoor season with four new program records.

By the Numbers
  • Anna Hightower achieved a personal best time of 10:10.88 in the 3,000m steeplechase.
  • Cary Drake clocked a time of 10:28.34, finishing eighth in her heat.
  • Skye Ellis finished ninth in the 1,500m quarterfinals with a time of 4:17.59.
  • Ava Criniti posted a time of 16:10.79 in the 5,000m run.
State of Play
  • Northwestern track athletes set four new program records during the 2026 outdoor season.
  • Hightower's performance marks her third career appearance in the steeplechase.
  • Ellis previously broke her own 1,500m program record twice this season.
What's Next

The Wildcats will shift focus to their upcoming cross country season this fall, building on their successful track campaign. Athletes like Hightower and Drake are expected to play key roles in enhancing the team’s competitive edge.

Bottom Line

After a stellar outdoor season highlighted by record-breaking performances, Northwestern track is set to carry momentum into the fall cross country season. The team's achievements underscore their growing prowess in collegiate athletics.