Kunkel and Basic's Performances Highlight Day One of Tyson Invitational

Hilltopper Track and Field wraps up first day of competition at Tyson Invitational

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Hilltopper Track and Field team had a strong showing on the first day of the Tyson Invitational in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Kinley Kunkel set a new personal best in the women's 3000m race, while Ajla Basic recorded a personal best in the women's weight throw. Other notable performances included Kameron Horton in the men's 60m, Sterling Weldon in the men's long jump, and Wade Balcom in the men's 800m.

Why it matters

The Tyson Invitational is a prestigious annual track and field event that attracts top collegiate athletes from across the country. Strong performances at this meet can help establish WKU's track and field program as a national contender and provide valuable experience for the athletes as they prepare for the upcoming conference and NCAA championships.

The details

On the women's side, Kinley Kunkel set a new personal best time of 9:39.87 in the 3000m, which ranks her fourth in WKU indoor history. Ajla Basic also set a new personal best in the weight throw with a mark of 19.71 meters, good for second in WKU indoor history. For the men, Kameron Horton ran 7.02 in the 60m prelims, Sterling Weldon jumped 7.26 meters in the long jump, and Wade Balcom finished 28th in the 800m with a season-best time.

  • The Tyson Invitational took place on February 13-14, 2026 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

The players

Kinley Kunkel

A member of the WKU women's track and field team who set a new personal best time in the 3000m race.

Ajla Basic

A member of the WKU women's track and field team who set a new personal best in the weight throw.

Kameron Horton

A member of the WKU men's track and field team who competed in the 60m prelims.

Sterling Weldon

A member of the WKU men's track and field team who competed in the long jump.

Wade Balcom

A member of the WKU men's track and field team who competed in the 800m.

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What’s next

The Hilltopper Track and Field team will continue competing at the Tyson Invitational on Saturday, February 14th.

The takeaway

The strong performances by Kunkel and Basic on the first day of the Tyson Invitational demonstrate the depth and talent of the WKU track and field program. These results bode well for the Hilltoppers as they look to make an impact at the upcoming conference and NCAA championships.