Auburn’s Tharp breaks world record in 110 hurdles on Day 1 of NCAA track and field meet
The NCAA outdoor track and field championships kicked off with a bang as Auburn junior Ja’Kobe Tharp made history by breaking the world record in the 110-meter hurdles with a stunning time of 12.75 seconds. This incredible feat took place during the semifinal round on Day 1 of the championships in Eugene, Oregon.
Tharp’s record-breaking performance not only secured his spot in the history books but also marked a significant milestone for the NCAA championships. He became the first individual since Dwight Stones 50 years ago to break a world record at the event. By improving his personal best by 0.26 seconds, Tharp surpassed the previous world record of 12.80 set by Olympic champion Aries Merritt in 2012 and Grant Holloway’s collegiate record of 12.98.
In a post-race interview, Tharp expressed his excitement and confidence, stating, “I have more in my legs! That was not a picture-perfect race. This round was about getting through, surviving and advancing. This (record) is a huge bonus.”
Aside from Tharp’s record-breaking performance, New Mexico’s Habtom Samuel also made headlines by winning the 10,000 meters final with a time of 27 minutes, 51.31 seconds. Samuel outpaced Louisville’s Elsingi Kipruto in the final stretch to claim his second title, having also won the race in 2024.
The day also saw five field event champions crowned, including Angelos Mantzouranis of Minnesota, who won the hammer throw with a throw of 248 feet, 7 inches. Nebraska’s Dyson Wicker took home the pole vault title with a height of 19-2 1/4, while Texas A&M senior Zaza Nnamdi emerged victorious in the javelin event with a throw of 269-10. Kansas State’s Tah Chikomba secured the long jump title with a leap of 27-5 1/2, and Oregon’s Ben Smith became the shot put champion with a mark of 69-0 1/2.
The men’s events will continue on Friday at Hayward Field, promising more thrilling performances and record-breaking moments. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the NCAA outdoor track and field championships.
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