BALTIMORE, Md. (May 16, 2024) — Senior standout Derick Robinson has achieved a remarkable milestone in his athletic career. Through hard work and exceptional performances, he has qualified for the prestigious 2024 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track & Field Championships East First Round. This prestigious event will take place from May 22-25 at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky.
The NCAA East First Round is a highly competitive event that brings together the most talented track and field athletes from across the eastern region of the United States. Robinson's qualification places him among elite company. He will now have the opportunity to showcase his skills on a national stage and compete for a spot in the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track & Field Championships.
Robinson will open regional championship action for the Bears on Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the men's long jump.
"I'm extremely happy and excited for Derick," said Neville Hodge, Head Track & Field/Cross Country Coach. "He has been injured for awhile, but through it all, he never stopped believing in Coach Smythe and his goal to compete in an NCAA Championship event."
"In one week, he will get the opportunity to live out his dream and follow all the Morganites who have that experience. Today is also his birthday, and he will be graduating on Saturday. What more can you ask for? Never give up on your dreams."
On April 20th, Robinson showcased his impressive long jump capabilities at the Annual Legacy Track & Field Meet, where he soared to a qualifying mark of 7.41 meters. Just a few weeks later, at the MEAC Outdoor Championships in Norfolk, Virginia, Robinson surpassed his previous mark and achieved a career-best distance of 7.62 meters. This remarkable leap earned him a bronze medal, solidifying his status as one of the top long jumpers in the conference.
Robinson, a St. Thomas, Jamaica product, enters next week nationally ranked T-No. 36 in the long jump in the NCAA East Region.
"Derick has worked extremely hard to get to this point," said Janice Smythe, Associate Head Track & Field/Cross Country Coach. "His goal all season was to qualify for the NCAA and to see him get to this point has been very rewarding. He had a lot of highs and lows throughout the season but he remained committed."
"I am extremely happy for him and I know he is looking forward to the experience and to represent Morgan at that level."
Robinson's journey is an inspiration to all athletes who aspire to achieve their dreams. It is a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and unwavering support, anything is possible.
The top 12 finishers in each event will advance to the NCAA Championships, which will be held in Eugene, Oregon, June 5-8.
ESPN+ will provide daily coverage of the East First Round meet.
Tickets are available for purchase here.
You can find schedule of events for the 2024 NCAA East and West first rounds below:
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Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution offering more than 126 academic programs leading to degrees from the baccalaureate to the doctorate. As Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, and the only university to have its entire campus designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Morgan serves a multiethnic and multiracial student body and seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. For more information about Morgan State University, visit www.morgan.edu.
