Romeo Brown Records Program Top-10 Mark in 100m at NAIA Championships

ASHEVILLE, N.C. - Spartanburg Methodist College junior Romeo Brown delivered a strong performance in the prelims of the men's 100-meter dash at the 2026 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field Championships, clocking a time of 10.53 to finish 12th overall in the field. The mark stands as the eighth-fastest time in program history.

Despite the strong effort, Brown did not advance to Friday's finals in the 100m dash.

Brown will return to competition on Friday in the finals of the 200-meter dash, scheduled for 4:30 p.m. (EST), where he will look to build on his strong championship-week performance.

He will not be the only Spartanburg Methodist athlete on the track during Friday's session. Junior Ryan Hunter will make his first appearance at the NAIA Championships, competing in the 5000-meter run at 4:55 p.m. (EST), marking a significant milestone in his collegiate career. Earlier this fall, he represented SMC at the NAIA Cross Country Championships. 

Head coach Jannai Maxwell praised both athletes for their preparation and competitive mindset on the national stage.

"For Ryan, this is a well-earned opportunity—he's put in the work all season, and we're excited to see him represent Spartanburg Methodist College on the national stage," Maxwell said. "Romeo continues to show he belongs among the top sprinters in the NAIA, and we are extremely proud of the way he competed in the 100. We're even more excited about what's ahead for him in the 200 tomorrow. He's prepared, confident, and ready to compete at a high level on the national stage."

Both athletes will aim to close out their championship appearances strong as the Pioneers continue competition at the 2026 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field Championships