FULLERTON, Calif.—The University of Hawai'I track and field team kicked off the outdoor season under challenging conditions at the Ben Brown Invitational, hosted by Cal State Fullerton on Friday at the Titan Track Complex.
 
The average temperature throughout the first day of the two-day event floated around 51 degrees, with rain pouring throughout the day. Regardless of mother nature, the Rainbow Wahine showcased multiple strong showings, proving they'll be a team to compete with throughout the Big West all season.
 
Sophomore Caitlin Simmons overcame the rough weather by jumping 5.66 meters (18'7") in the long jump to take first place. She can build on her performance throughout the season, but her distance has already qualified her for the Big West Championships in May.
 
Atop the podium with Simmons was junior Montserrat Montanes i Arbo as she placed first in the hammer throw with a distance of 54.78m (179'8). Graduate Victoria Solheim placed at No. 8, launching the hammer 49.34m (161'10), and junior Hallee Mohr finished tenth, throwing for a distance of 48.72m (159'10). All three are now qualified for the Big West Championships.
 
During the indoor season, Jessica Mackenzie dedicated herself to throws and left her mark as she placed second overall in the javelin. She launched her spear 40.30m (132'2"), joining Simmons and others as a qualifier for the Big West Championships. Freshman Rose Forshaw will follow suit in May as she placed fifth in the javelin at 36.95m (121'2").
 
Following a progressive first year in cross country, freshman Keilah Wilkes made her outdoor track and field debut and placed at No. 15 in the 1500 run. Wilkes time of 4:45.97 is a solid time to begin the season, but it fell short of qualifying for the Big West. Senior Sophia Morgan recorded a top-10 time in the UH record book at 17:43.71 in the 5000m. While, sophomore Carlin McFadden improved her time in the 800m by five seconds to 2:18.17, compared to her best time this season while competing during the indoor season.
 
UH will continue with the second day of the invite on Saturday, highlighted by the triple jump, discus throw, 200m, and two relays. Events are set to begin at 9 a.m. HT.