USC Trojans Dominate NACAC U23 Championships with Impressive Wins
USC Trojan track athletes shine at the 2023 NACAC U23 Championships, securing gold, silver, and bronze medals in relay and individual events.
At the 2023 North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC) U23 Championships held in San Jose, Costa Rica from July 21st to 23rd, a trio of exceptional USC Trojan track athletes stood out and earned well-deserved recognition, as revealed in an official statement from the University of Southern California (USC).
Among these standout performers were junior sprinter Jan’Taijah Jones, distinguished grad student Bailey Lear, and promising freshman sprinter William Jones, all of whom exhibited remarkable prowess on the track and secured medals during the intense competition.
Notably, Jan’Taijah Jones and Bailey Lear, both active members of USC’s women’s track team, achieved remarkable feats by capturing gold medals in distinct relay events. A pivotal member of the USA women’s 4x400m relay team, Jan’Taijah Jones contributed significantly to their victory with an impressive winning time of 3:26.83. Standing at a height of 5’8″, this third-year sensation has etched her name in USC’s history with the third-best women’s indoor 400m time, along with securing the fourth and fifth positions for the best times in women’s indoor 4x400m relays amongst all Trojans.
Bailey Lear, a seasoned athlete boasting a height of 5’6″, demonstrated her exceptional skill by securing a gold medal for her nation in the mixed 4x400m relay event, clocking in at an impressive 3:14.71. Additionally, Lear is acknowledged for her remarkable speed in the women’s indoor 400m, positioning her as the fourth-fastest competitor in this category.
Not to be outdone, freshman William Jones, commencing his inaugural NCAA season as a member of USC’s men’s track team, showcased his potential by clinching two medals. Jones secured a silver medal for his exemplary performance in the initial leg of the 4x400m relay race, contributing to his team’s impressive overall time of 3:03.84. Furthermore, he displayed his individual prowess by capturing a bronze medal in the 400m competition, impressively completing the race in just 45.95 seconds. It’s worth noting that Jones had previously achieved a remarkable time of 46.76 seconds in the New Balance Indoor Nationals, an achievement that secured him a second-place finish in a competitive high school event.
The accomplishments of these exceptional USC Trojan track stars at the NACAC U23 Championships stand as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and unmatched athletic talent. Their extraordinary performances have not only earned them well-deserved medals but have also elevated USC’s reputation in the world of track and field.