Academy of Art University Athletics

Junior Vashti Thomas made her triumphant return to the track this past weekend and she wasted little time in breaking ART U records. On the first day of the University of New Mexico Cherry & Silver Invitational in Albuquerque, NM, Thomas set a new top mark in the 200m with a 24.29 time. That same day, the transfer from Texas A&M University also posted a 20-1 distance in the long jump.

Day Two was more impressive feats as Thomas took 1st in the 60m hurdles preliminary round with a 8.46 mark and followed with another 1st place finish and a 8.26 time to lead the 15-athlete field final round. The junior would also help out the Urban Knights in the 4x400m relay.

"We had some good performances, but this weekend, the story was all about the return of Vashti Thomas," head coach Charles Ryan. "She has worked so hard here on and off the track since her transfer from Texas A&M and I'm so proud of her. She is a natural leader, elected team captain by her teammates, she is a phenomenal talent, but most important she seems truly happy doing what she loves here in this program."