‘It’s Almost Like A Dream’: Auburn Duo Speaks on Incredible Feats at NCAA Outdoor Championships
Auburn University juniors Ja’Kobe Tharp and Kayinsola Ajayi etched their names into history with stunning victories at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, held at Hayward Field.
Tharp, already a national champion, defended his 110m hurdles crown to secure his fourth NCAA title. His triumph came just two days after breaking the world record with a blistering 12.75 seconds, a performance that sent shockwaves through the athletics world.
On Friday, he followed up with another sub‑13‑second run, showing remarkable composure despite the whirlwind of attention.
‘It’s almost like a dream. I wanted to put on a show, run fast, make a statement, and show the world I’m one of the best. I think I did my job,’ Tharp told the University’s official website.
Ajayi delivered his own moment of glory in the men’s 100m, powering through the final stretch to win in a wind‑aided 9.72 seconds.
The Nigerian sprinter, who had already claimed the 60m indoor crown in March, redeemed himself after finishing third as a freshman and fourth last year.
‘My coach told me, ‘Ajayi, don’t worry about the 4×100, you win some and lose some. Just go out there and do what you have to do,’’ Ajayi said. ‘I stuck to the plan. I didn’t care about the time; I only cared about the win. That’s Auburn for you.’
Sophomore Israel Okon added to the team’s strong showing with a gutsy performance in the 200m, finishing second in 19.99 seconds, his best NCAA championship result to date.
