Purdue University has a rich athletic history, and its track and field program is no exception. With a legacy of producing talented athletes and record-breakers, the Boilermakers have made their mark on the NCAA. In this article, we'll take a look at 7 record-breaking moments in Purdue University track history.
The Birthplace of Speed: Purdue's Track and Field Legacy
Purdue University's track and field program has been a force to be reckoned with since its inception. With a strong tradition of producing fast, agile, and dedicated athletes, the Boilermakers have consistently ranked among the top programs in the NCAA. From Olympic gold medalists to world record-holders, Purdue has been the launching pad for many a successful athletic career.
Moment #1: Dave Parrington's 400m Hurdles Record (1964)
One of the earliest record-breaking moments in Purdue track history was set by Dave Parrington in 1964. Parrington, a junior at the time, clocked an impressive 49.8 seconds in the 400m hurdles, shattering the previous Big Ten record by over a second. This achievement marked the beginning of a legacy of Purdue hurdlers dominating the NCAA.
Moment #2: Mark Bomba's High Jump Record (1979)
In 1979, Mark Bomba cleared an astonishing 7'4.5" in the high jump, setting a new Purdue record that would stand for over a decade. Bomba's achievement earned him a spot on the NCAA All-American team and cemented his place in Purdue track history.
Moment #3: Michelle Carter's Shot Put Record (2005)
Michelle Carter, a junior at the time, threw a staggering 60'8.5" in the shot put, breaking the Purdue record by over 2 feet. Carter's achievement earned her a spot on the NCAA All-American team and paved the way for future generations of Purdue throwers.
Moment #4: Travis Thomas's 110m Hurdles Record (2008)
Travis Thomas, a senior at the time, clocked an impressive 13.41 seconds in the 110m hurdles, shattering the previous Purdue record by over a tenth of a second. Thomas's achievement earned him a spot on the NCAA All-American team and marked a turning point in Purdue's hurdling program.
Moment #5: Raheem Mostert's 100m Dash Record (2013)
Raheem Mostert, a junior at the time, clocked an impressive 10.15 seconds in the 100m dash, breaking the Purdue record by over a tenth of a second. Mostert's achievement earned him a spot on the NCAA All-American team and marked the beginning of a new era in Purdue sprinting.
Moment #6: Devynne Charlton's 100m Hurdles Record (2016)
Devynne Charlton, a sophomore at the time, clocked an impressive 12.77 seconds in the 100m hurdles, breaking the Purdue record by over a tenth of a second. Charlton's achievement earned her a spot on the NCAA All-American team and marked a new era in Purdue hurdling.
Moment #7: Savannah Carson's 4x400m Relay Record (2020)
Savannah Carson, a junior at the time, anchored the Purdue 4x400m relay team to a new school record, clocking an impressive 3:31.19. Carson's achievement earned her a spot on the NCAA All-American team and marked a new era in Purdue relay running.
Gallery of Purdue Track and Field Moments
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most successful Purdue track and field event?
+The most successful Purdue track and field event is the 4x400m relay, with multiple NCAA championships and record-breaking performances.
Who is the most decorated Purdue track and field athlete?
+Raheem Mostert is the most decorated Purdue track and field athlete, with multiple NCAA All-American honors and a school record in the 100m dash.
What is the fastest time ever recorded in the 100m dash at Purdue?
+The fastest time ever recorded in the 100m dash at Purdue is 10.15 seconds, set by Raheem Mostert in 2013.
We hope you enjoyed this look back at 7 record-breaking moments in Purdue University track history. From hurdling to sprinting, the Boilermakers have consistently produced talented athletes who have made their mark on the NCAA. Share your favorite Purdue track and field moments in the comments below!