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Rookie Sensation: Sana Udoekong Shatters Principia's 200-Meter Dash Record
Principia College Freshman Sana Udoekong Shatters Principia's 200-Meter Dash Record

 

Principia College's track and field team arrived at Washburn University, poised to launch their season's opening chapter. The venue's sleek banked track and state-of-the-art facilities set the stage for the Panthers' athletes to shine. Among them, freshman Sana Udoekong (US’24) emerged as a rising star whose debut echoed through Principia's halls and beyond, etching her name into the annals of school history with a performance that defied expectations. 

The day unfolded with Udoekong's lightning-quick sprint in the 60-meter dash, clocking in at 7.85 seconds. As the second-fastest time ever recorded at Principia, it trails right behind the former 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympic sprinter and Principia graduate, the legendary Ngozi Mwanamwambwa-Asinga (US’89, C’93). 

Next, Udoekong set her sights on the 200-meter dash, a challenge that would etch her name even deeper into the record books. Breaking Asinga's long-standing indoor school and conference record from 1992 by a commanding full second, Udoekong crossed the finish line in 25.55 seconds, securing a notable seventh place among 47 fierce competitors. Her remarkable feat not only topped the conference rankings for the season but also placed her prominently at 27th in all of Division III for the 200 meters. 

As news of her exceptional performance spread across campus, it was no surprise when the Southern Illinois Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC) bestowed upon Udoekong the well-deserved title of Women's Track Athlete of the Week. Her dedication, honed through rigorous training and supported by Principia College's nurturing environment, culminated in a dazzling debut that set a new standard for excellence. 

Udoekong, a British-Nigerian runner and scholar athlete, said, “I’m happy that all the work I put in is paying off. Breaking a sprint record at Prin was definitely one of my goals for this season, but I didn’t expect it to happen this soon. However, now that I have, it’s raised my expectations for myself and motivated me to set even higher goals, including breaking the 60-meter record.” 

For Udoekong, Principia College isn't just a setting—it’s a catalyst that has allowed her talent to flourish. With state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive community of coaches and teammates, she’s found herself empowered to push beyond her limits and redefine what it means to be a newcomer in collegiate athletics.  

“I’m grateful that Prin has such a great gym and indoor facility, which have been a huge help with training. And I’m thankful for the support from my coaches and teammates who have helped me overcome obstacles and continue improving.”  

Track and Field Head Coach Nick Barron (US’09) elaborated on the culture of excellence at Principia, stating, “There is so much good being poured into this program. The environment here is truly special, shaped by the contributions of exceptional athletes and coaches over the years. The success we’ve achieved at the national level, considering our school’s size, is remarkable. The hard work of our athletes benefits the entire campus.” 

As the season unfolds, all eyes are on Sana Udoekong, as she continues to chase new milestones and inspire future generations of Panther athletes.