Ackera Nugent was among a group of Jamaicans who delivered standout performances at the John McDonnell Invitational in Fayetteville, Arkansas, on Friday, securing podium finishes across multiple events.

Nugent, the World Indoor bronze medallist, was in superb form in the 100m hurdles, storming to victory in 12.67 seconds (+0.9m/s). She finished comfortably ahead of the United States’ Destiny Huven, who was second in 13.00 seconds, with Danae Dyer of the United States taking third in 13.21.

In the women’s 300m hurdles, Andrenette Knight produced a strong showing to finish second. Knight, a finalist at last year’s World Championships, clocked 38.65 seconds, trailing American Anna Cockrell who won in 38.07. Saira Prince of Arkansas rounded out the top three in 39.63.

There was more success for Jamaica in the women’s 200m, where Stacey-Ann Williams captured victory. Williams ran a lifetime best 22.87 seconds (+0.1m/s) to top a deep field that saw Rosey Effiong of Arkansas finish second in 22.99 (+0.6) and Alexis Holmes third in 23.09 (+0.6).

Arkansas senior Joanne Reid, also of Jamaica, secured a fifth-place overall finish in the 200m after running 23.59 seconds in her heat. Aaliyah Pyatt (23.44, +0.1) finished fourth overall in the event.

Jamaica’s Nia Robinson delivered another standout performance in the women’s long jump, soaring out to 6.43m (21-1¼) with a wind reading of +0.7m/s to claim victory. Funminiyi Olajide of Arkansas was second with a jump of 6.20m (-1.0), while Pittsburg State’s Blakelee Winn finished third at 5.99m (+1.3).

In the women’s discus, Samantha Hall dominated the field, throwing a best of 57.98m (190-3) to win and set a new meet record. Addison Hinterweger of Pittsburg State was second with 43.20m (141-9), while Joia Perry of Central Arkansas took third with 42.26m (138-8).

Overall, it was an excellent day for Jamaica’s athletes at the John McDonnell Invitational, with Nugent, Williams, Robinson, and Hall all securing victories and Knight and Reid adding important top-five finishes in their events.

Main photo; Shawn Price