Northwestern Track Dominates Chicagoland Championships

Wildcats break two school records and win three event titles in impressive performance.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:39am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold brushstrokes in neon greens, blues, and reds, capturing the dynamic motion and intensity of a track and field competition.The Wildcats' record-breaking performances and event victories at the Chicagoland Championships showcase the program's continued growth and dominance.Elmhurst Today

The Northwestern track team had a standout performance at the Chicagoland Championships on Friday, breaking two school records and winning three event titles. Skye Ellis and Cary Drake etched their names in the NU history books with record-breaking runs in the 1,500m and 3,000m steeplechase, respectively. The Wildcats also saw strong showings from Anna Hightower, Jackie Holman, Mallory Grubb, and Kailey Zagst, who all finished near the top of their events.

Why it matters

This dominant showing by the Northwestern track team at the Chicagoland Championships highlights the program's continued growth and development. The record-breaking performances by Ellis and Drake, along with the overall team success, demonstrate the Wildcats' ability to compete at the highest level and position the team well for the rest of the outdoor season.

The details

Skye Ellis broke her own school record in the 1,500m with a time of 4:17.24, while Cary Drake set a new program mark in the 3,000m steeplechase with a time of 10:29.96. The Wildcats also saw strong individual performances, including Anna Hightower's second-place finish in the 1,500m, Jackie Holman's fourth-place result, and Kailey Zagst's first-place showing in the 5,000m.

  • The Chicagoland Championships took place on Friday, April 12, 2026.
  • Skye Ellis broke the school record in the 1,500m that she had previously set in May 2025.
  • Cary Drake's record-breaking 3,000m steeplechase was her first career race in the event.

The players

Skye Ellis

A Northwestern track athlete who broke the school record in the 1,500m with a time of 4:17.24.

Cary Drake

A redshirt freshman on the Northwestern track team who set a new school record in the 3,000m steeplechase with a time of 10:29.96.

Anna Hightower

A Northwestern track athlete who finished second in the 1,500m with the second-fastest time in program history.

Jackie Holman

A Northwestern track athlete who finished fourth in the 1,500m.

Kailey Zagst

A Northwestern track athlete who won the 5,000m event.

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What they’re saying

“Skye and Cary's record-breaking performances were the highlights of the day, but the entire team really stepped up and delivered an outstanding effort at the Chicagoland Championships.”

— Mike Wittman, Northwestern Track and Field Head Coach

What’s next

The Wildcats will have a busy schedule next weekend, traveling to California for the Bryan Clay Invitational on April 16 before heading to Indiana for the Gibson Invitational the following day.

The takeaway

Northwestern's track team showcased its depth and talent at the Chicagoland Championships, breaking two school records and winning three event titles. This performance positions the Wildcats well for the remainder of the outdoor season as they continue to compete at a high level.