The University of the Virgin Islands Men’s Track and Field team wrapped up its 2026 season with a good showing at the HBCU Athletic Conference Outdoor Track and Field Championships, held at Lee Hedges Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana, on April 30 and May 1.
The Buccaneers opened competition in the field events with the men’s javelin throw. Representing UVI were junior Ahsan Ambo and freshmen Lance Latare and Zahir Mbengue. Mbengue delivered the standout performance for the Buccaneers, finishing 9th overall out of a competitive field of 23 athletes. The Chicago, Illinois native recorded a top throw of 31.35 meters, marking a strong close to his freshman campaign.
Ambo and Latare posted throws of 26.11 meters and 19.28 meters, respectively, as they rounded out the field for the Buccaneers.
Action then shifted to the track, where the Buccaneers competed in the sprint events throughout the afternoon and evening of day one. Ambo returned to compete in the 100-meter dash, clocking a time of 11.79 seconds. Close behind him in the same heat was sophomore Gabriel Elcock, who crossed the line in 11.90 seconds.
The trio of Ambo, senior V’andre Rochester, and Elcock later lined up for the 200-meter dash. Facing a deep field, they finished 25th, 28th, and 30th overall, respectively, in a field of strong conference competition.
Rochester also represented UVI in the 400-meter dash, posting a time of 56.25 seconds in his final appearance for the Buccaneers.
With the conclusion of the championships, the UVI Men’s Track and Field team officially brings its 2026 season to a close, gaining valuable experience and setting a foundation for future growth.
