VMI high jumper Morgan Fraser and sophomore mid-distance runner Reagan Gilman delivered strong performances on April 17 during the first day of the 2026 Virginia Challenge at the University of Virginia’s Lannigan Field in Charlottesville.
The event featured elite collegiate competition, with Fraser and Gilman setting a positive start for VMI. Their achievements highlighted VMI’s presence among top Division I programs from conferences such as the Atlantic Coast Conference and Southeastern Conference.
Gilman broke her own school record in the 800 meter for a second consecutive week, finishing with a time of 2:07.67 to place first in her heat and thirteenth overall. Her previous record was set just last week at the JMU Invitational with a time of 2:10.50. Last season, she initially set the standard at 2:12.24 during the Southern Conference Outdoor Championships, surpassing Kelsey Newcomb’s former record from 2013.
Fraser matched her recent form by clearing a height of 1.62 meters in the high jump, resulting in a five-way tie for thirteenth place—just one centimeter below her mark from last week’s JMU Invite.
“Stepping up against some of the top Division I teams on the East coast, including ACC and SEC programs, I thought our women really rose to the challenge on the first day,” said VMI Director of Track and Field Zack Scott. “Morgan Fraser set the tone for us in the high jump, and Reagan Gilman closed it out strong by winning her heat in the invitational 800m running a new personal best 2.07.67.”
Competition continues Saturday with several VMI athletes scheduled to participate across various events including hurdles, sprints, relays, pole vault, and invitational races.
