On January 23, 2026, the athletic prowess of North Dakota’s fighting spirit will be on full display as the North Dakota Track and Field teams head to South Dakota for the prestigious Jim Emmerich Alumni Invitational. Set within the impressive Sanford Jackrabbit Athletic Complex in Brookings, this highly anticipated meet is yet another opportunity for the Fighting Hawks to showcase their talents, continuing their promising indoor season. Known for its rich agricultural history and commitment to higher education, South Dakota provides a fitting backdrop for this gathering of athletic excellence, highlighted by both individual and team diversity in track and field events.
Julia Matthews at the Jim Emmerich Alumni Invitational
The warm welcome of Brookings is not unfamiliar to North Dakota’s team. This return to South Dakota State is also an opportunity for the athletes to build on their previous achievements at the Bison Team Cup. South Dakota, celebrated for landmarks like Mount Rushmore and the Badlands, proudly hosts events such as the Jim Emmerich Invitational, drawing talent from neighboring states to its sports venues. The pride of South Dakota is palpable, especially in the energetic and engaged community found in Brookings, renowned for its vibrant college town atmosphere and a history of hospitality towards visiting teams.
Among the standout competitors, Carter Byron is a name to watch. The UND athlete’s exceptional performance in the weight throw is a testament to his hard work and dedication, reflected in his personal best of 60-2 1/2 (18.35m) achieved at the Bison Team Cup. This incredible feat now positions him at number six on North Dakota’s prestigious top-10 list. Meanwhile, his teammate, Julia Matthews, equally impressed by securing first place in the women’s weight throw with a remarkable distance of 59-6 3/4 (18.15m).
Ryan Lange and Marta Marksa continue to lead the charge for North Dakota in the 60-meter hurdles races. Their victories underscore the strength and strategy of the Fighting Hawks, with Lange clocking in at 8.52 seconds and Marksa shortly after, recording a time of 8.89 seconds. It is victories like these that continue to enhance North Dakota’s reputation in track and field, not only in the Summit League but nationally as well.
Kim Hitchen’s triumph in the women’s 400-meter dash adds another feather to North Dakota’s cap, crossing the line at 58.01 seconds. Meanwhile, Emma Briggs, rising star in the pole vault, achieved a significant milestone with her third-place finish, clearing a height of 11-9 3/4 (3.60m) and securing a spot as the eighth best in North Dakota’s history.
South Dakota, known for its serene landscapes and as a warm embrace to visiting sportspersons, plays a pivotal role in hosting such competitions, nurturing young athletes, and showcasing their potential to a broader audience. The support from the local residents of Brookings and extensive facilities like the Sanford Jackrabbit Athletic Complex make South Dakota a prime location for track and field events.
The North Dakota team, underlined by the leadership of Coach Sydney Smith, remains focused on improving their indoor marks. Already they have set an impressive list of 14 new top-10 indoor marks, as well as school records—most notably by Louis-Lys Fanucchi and Jadyn Keeler—who shattered previous top times in the 5,000-meter category with times of 13:58.81 and 15:14.76 respectively.
This event is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of athletic dedication and regional camaraderie. South Dakota’s contribution extends beyond mere hospitality; it passionately endorses the cultivation of talent shown by these young athletes, further solidifying its status as a key player in the Midwest’s sports and educational landscape.
Ahead lies the UND Open back home in Grand Forks, scheduled for January 30 and 31 at the Frederick D. Pollard Jr. Athletic Center, which serves as a significant venue for North Dakota athletes to continue their momentum. Supporters are encouraged to follow the developments and engage with the Fighting Hawks through social media channels or visit FightingHawks.com for detailed updates.
The tale of North Dakota’s track and field journey, told through each measured leap and timed sprint, will continue to be written as they trek across the Midwest, carrying the enduring spirit and unity synonymous with their region. It’s a regional story—one where determination plays center stage amidst the scenic landscapes of South Dakota, contributing a chapter of sportsmanship to be cherished in the hearts of athletes and fans alike.