VCU track and field along with cross country competes for championships in every event throughout their respective seasons. The Rams set the standard for the A10 in each competition and need support on Giving Day to maintain a winning culture. 

Click Here to Give to Track & Field and Cross Country from now until April 22. 

Improving facility and wellness resources are crucial to retaining championship-level talent for VCU track & field and cross-country student-athletes. Top-notch academic support propelled both VCU cross-country teams to All-Academic status for the Fall 2024 season. As the Athletic Village project continues, the track & field and cross-country student-athletes need donor support to continue competing at a high level in their program events and the classroom.  

"Your support of our programs can make a big difference," head coach Jon Riley said. "It will allow us to turn a good season into a great one. I want to thank you in advance for your generosity and support. Go Rams!"

Men's and women's cross country teams combined for four top-five finishes across the Fall 2024 season. At the A10 Championships, Nia Warren placed in the top-50 and led a group of five Rams who set personal bests on the women's side. Kendall Phillips and Cole Dawson each finished in the top-60 for the men. 

"The generosity from donors has truly transformed my experience here," junior sprinter Kayelyn Tate said. "I am fortunate enough to receive a stellar education and compete at a high level with an athletic department that provides us everything we need and more thanks to the help of donors and their continued support to make these dreams happen."

Indoor women's and men's track & field finished second and third, respectively, at the A10 Championships in March. David Coles (triple jump) won gold while Isaiah-Taji Kargbo Owens (triple jump), Emmanuel Oche (60-meter dash) and the 4x400-meter relay team earned silver medals to lead the men's side. For the women, Lauryn Taylor won two golds and Eryn Byrd added another to pace an eight-medal performance. 

With the focus now on the outdoor season, the Rams have five more weekend invitationals before heading to the A10 Championships in Fairfax on May 3. They rely on donor support to provide first-class travel experiences, including healthy meals and comfortable hotel stays. 

Amid a near year-round schedule with three championships between indoor and outdoor competitions, student-athletes participating in track & field as well as cross-country require recovery tools that empower them to compete at the highest level. Adding zero gravity treadmills to the team's toolkit will further promote dedicated and moderated recovery efforts. 

"Your generosity has helped us learn, train and compete at our full potential and I know it has been extremely beneficial during my time at VCU, whether it was through better facilities, travel opportunities or resources that enhance our training and education," Coles said. "Thank you for being a part of our journey and we as a team would love to have your continued support."

Click Here to Give to Track & Field and Cross Country from now until April 22.