RIPON, Wis. - Carroll University opened its indoor season with a strong showing at the Ripon Winter Open on Saturday, delivering standout performances across sprints, distance, jumps, and throws. The Pioneers battled deep fields and came away with impressive team finishes—second place for the men (98 points) and second for the women (131 points)—setting the tone for an exciting campaign.
Women's Highlights
The Carroll women showcased depth and versatility, scoring in nearly every event. In the sprints, Cadence Carlson led the way with a fourth-place finish in the 60 meters (8.02) and anchored the 4x400 relay to third (4:11.48). The Pioneers dominated the 200 meters, packing four scorers: Aimee Koranteng (27.70), Margaret Carter (27.73), and Addison Weber (27.81) all placed in the top six, while Avery Wolf added a point in eighth.
Distance events were a major strength, as Carroll swept the top five in the mile. Kyla Laabs claimed the win in 6:02.52, followed by Brooke Davies, Lucy Beuthin, Kayla Hirschmann, and Nina Yaras. In the 3000 meters, Abby Burie (12:14.20), Paola Orozco (12:18.01), and Rebecca Barnes (12:24.03) combined for 15 points.
Field events added crucial points. Jenna Weis cleared 3.55m for second in pole vault, while Katelyn Duber soared to second in triple jump (10.96m). In throws, Caroline Plasil led the weight throw crew with a third-place mark of 12.99m, backed by Grace Pequignot, Madilyn Ullrich, and Jaida Wyatt, who all finished in the top eight.
Men's Highlights
On the men's side, Carroll's sprinters made an early statement. Brian Smith blazed to victory in the 200 meters (22.55), while Denim Riley earned runner-up honors in the 60 meters (7.13). The Pioneers also claimed the 4x400 relay title in 3:34.99 behind Smith, Matthew Konieczny, Connor Tector, and Patrick Signore.
In mid-distance, Signore added a fifth-place finish in the 600 meters (1:31.81), and Luke Adams scored in the mile (4:54.34). Charlie Quast delivered in the 3000 meters, taking second in 9:26.43.
The jumps and throws were equally productive. Carlos Cadet starred in the field, winning the triple jump (13.72m) and placing third in long jump (6.77m). In the shot put, Brady Reusser launched 15.11m for second, while he and Dylan Mendro went 2-3 in the weight throw to pile up points.
Carroll's balanced attack across all disciplines underscores the depth and talent of this year's squad. The Pioneers have set a high early season bar, and will continue to look to improve upon this great start, with their next meet on January 10th in Beloit.
