Denmark, SC – Two Voorhees University track and field athletes made history winning at the prestigious Penn Relays. Armond Hopkins and Michael Tatnall placed 1st and 3rd, respectively, in the triple jump, making it the first time in history that Voorhees University athletes placed in this international event. The Penn Relays were held in Philadelphia, April 27-29 at Franklin Field. “Our athletes have consistently worked diligently to accomplish this, and their hard work made Voorhees history,” states Jeffrey Hughes, Voorhees Head Track & Field Coach.
“After battling an injury last year and a challenging indoor season, it feels very good to be back and make it to nationals,”, declares Hopkins, a sophomore at Voorhees. The Charlotte native has been competing in track since the age of eight and claims the triple and high jumps as his favorites.
In addition, Hopkins, Tatnall, and Brandy Mackey, have qualified for the N.A.I.A. Outdoor Track and Field Championships, competing in the triple jump. The three athletes will compete among the best at the championships held at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, IN. Michael Tatnall has also qualified for the USA Track and Field Under 20 Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, OR in July.
This is Brandy Mackey’s second year qualifying for the outdoor nationals. The senior sports management major credits her mom, late father, and friends for inspiring her and states, “When I think about giving up, the memory of my dad inspires me to keep going.”
