Chippewas Shine at Spartan Invite

Central Michigan Track & Field team posts strong results ahead of Chippewa Challenge

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:39pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the motion and energy of a track and field competition, with overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors representing the various events and athletes.The Chippewas' dynamic performances at the Spartan Invitational showcase the team's depth and potential heading into the home Chippewa Challenge meet.East Lansing Today

The Central Michigan University Track & Field team competed at the Spartan Invitational on Friday, with several Chippewas turning in impressive individual performances. The meet served as the final tune-up for CMU before hosting the Chippewa Challenge on April 11.

Why it matters

The Spartan Invitational provided the Chippewas a chance to compete against top-level competition from across the region, helping the team prepare for the upcoming Chippewa Challenge and the rest of the outdoor season. Strong showings in this meet could build momentum for the home event and the rest of the year.

The details

Highlights for CMU included Linnearia Richards winning the long jump and placing second in the 100m hurdles, the 200m dash trio of Sophia Garland, Danica Shamion, and Ella Sweatt sweeping the top three spots, and the 4x100 relay team of Shamion, Garland, Andrea Merin, and Sweatt finishing second. Other top performers were Logan Brazee and Ava Teed in the 5000m, Libby Munderloh in the 400m hurdles, and Victoria Merrick in the discus.

  • The Spartan Invitational took place on Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • The Chippewa Challenge will be hosted by CMU on April 11, 2026.

The players

Central Michigan Track & Field

The track and field program at Central Michigan University, competing in the Mid-American Conference.

Linnearia Richards

A Central Michigan track and field athlete who won the long jump and placed second in the 100m hurdles at the Spartan Invitational.

Sophia Garland, Danica Shamion, Ella Sweatt

Central Michigan track and field sprinters who swept the top three spots in the 200m dash at the Spartan Invitational.

Andrea Merin

A member of the Central Michigan 4x100 relay team that finished second at the Spartan Invitational.

Victoria Merrick

A Central Michigan track and field athlete who placed second in the discus throw at the Spartan Invitational.

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What they’re saying

“It was great to get out and compete today. Conditions weren't the best today and I think that can be good early in the season. It teaches everyone to compete and control what they can. We did that very well today.”

— Jenny Swieton, Central Michigan Director of Track & Field

What’s next

Central Michigan Track and Field will host the Chippewa Challenge at the Lyle Bennett Outdoor Track on April 11, 2026.

The takeaway

The Chippewas' strong performance at the Spartan Invitational, with several event wins and top finishes, demonstrates the team's depth and potential heading into the Chippewa Challenge and the rest of the outdoor season. The meet served as a valuable tune-up for the home event and the rest of the year.