For the second straight day, the Kentucky Wildcats faced Mother Nature’s wrath at the NCAA East First Rounds on Friday, May 30, 2025, enduring a lengthy severe weather delay at Hodges Stadium. But the Cats didn’t let the elements slow them down, walking away with one ticket punched to the NCAA Championships in Eugene, 10 athletes advancing to Saturday’s quarterfinals, and another school record shattered.
Jepkemboi Amimo Steals the Show—Again
Freshman phenom Janet Jepkemboi Amimo continues to rewrite the Kentucky record books. For the second time this season, she broke her own program record in the women’s 800m, clocking a blistering 2:01.78 in the first round to advance to Saturday’s quarterfinals. The time, good for third overall in the event, further cements Jepkemboi Amimo’s status as a rising star in Lexington.
“Janet’s ability to perform at this level as a freshman is unreal,” head coach Lonnie Greene said after the meet. “She’s raising the bar for this program every time she steps on the track.”
Powers Punches Her Ticket
The day started strong for Kentucky in the morning field events, with senior Kate Powers securing her spot in Eugene for the second straight year. Powers placed ninth in the women’s hammer throw with a mark of 63.91m (209-8), earning her a return trip to the NCAA Championships (June 11-14, 2025). Her consistency in the event gives the Wildcats a reliable point-scorer on the national stage.
“Kate’s been a rock for us,” Greene noted. “She’s ready to make some noise in Eugene.”
Hurdles and Sprints Highlight Running Events
The Wildcats kept the momentum going on the track, starting with the women’s 100m hurdles. Sophomores Emmi Scales and Camden Bentley both advanced to the second round, finishing 10th and 11th with times of 13.07 and 13.08, respectively. Bentley’s mark tied her personal best, showcasing her growth in a competitive field.
As the day shifted to the afternoon and evening slate—delayed by severe weather—Kentucky’s depth shone through. Sharmelle Holmes (100m), Alysia Johnson (400m), Jenna Schwinghamer (800m), Scales (400m hurdles), and Hannah Douglas, Holmes, and Stacey Onyepunuka (200m) all secured spots in Saturday’s quarterfinals by finishing inside the top 24 of their respective events. Those quarterfinals are set to kick off at 6:15 p.m. EST, wrapping up the East First Rounds.
Looking Ahead to Day Three
Day three in Jacksonville will start early with the postponed women’s pole vault at 9:30 a.m. EST, where Payton Phillips will look to make her mark after weather halted the event on Thursday. The day will conclude with Ed Bird competing in the men’s 5000m semifinal at 8:10 p.m. EST, aiming to join Powers in Eugene.
The Big Picture
Despite the weather challenges, Kentucky’s performance on day two was a statement. Jepkemboi Amimo’s record-breaking run, Powers’ qualification, and a slew of quarterfinal berths highlight the Wildcats’ depth and talent. With one more day of competition in Jacksonville, the Cats have a chance to send even more athletes to the NCAA Championships. Saturday’s quarterfinals will be pivotal, and Big Blue Nation will be watching closely.
