The Texas Tech track and field program has been on an absolute tear, and they're looking to extend their reign at the Big 12 championships this weekend. The Red Raiders have swept the team titles at the past three conference meets—including both indoor and outdoor championships—and now they're setting their sights on Tucson.
This three-day showdown kicks off Thursday, May 14, and runs through Saturday, May 16, at Arizona's Drachman Stadium. For fans eager to follow the action, the schedule is packed with combined events, field events, and running events each day, starting as early as 1 p.m. CDT on Thursday and wrapping up with evening races.
The Red Raiders have plenty of reasons to be confident. On the men's side, Texas Tech sits at No. 13 in the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association ratings index, while the women's team is ranked an impressive No. 8. They'll face stiff competition from powerhouse programs like Kansas State, BYU, and Oklahoma State, but Tech has proven they can rise to the occasion.
Keep an eye on some standout athletes who are poised to make noise. For the men, DeSean Boyce is a threat in the 400 meters, B.J. Jennings is one to watch in the high jump, and the 400-meter relay team featuring Johnathan Crawford and Kimarlie Stewart has been turning heads. On the women's side, the depth is just as strong, with several Red Raiders ranked in the top three of their events heading into the meet.
One name to remember is Titus Kimaru, who leads the Big 12 in the 3,000-meter steeplechase with a blistering time of 8:18.26. The 400-meter relay squad—Braylin Byrd, Johnathan Crawford, Josiyah Taylor, and Kimarlie Stewart—also holds the top spot with a season-best 38.65. And the 1,600-meter relay team, anchored by George Garcia, Shaemar Uter, and Elijah Ferguson, is primed for a strong showing.
Whether you're a die-hard track fan or just love seeing athletes push their limits, this weekend's championships promise plenty of drama and excitement. So grab your gear, settle in, and get ready to cheer on the Red Raiders as they chase another title.