The men's track and field team surged to a strong start in its first meet of the season on Saturday at the Boston University Season Opener, held in Boston, MA.

The competition was a non-scoring event and team totals were not tabulated. Yet, the meet proved to be a critical indicator of success for the Judges. Brandeis squared off against a host of competitors from NCAA Division I schools, including host BU, Boston College, Bryant University, Central Connecticut State University, Northeastern University and the University of Massachusetts Lowell.

The Judges, however, were not deterred by the competition.
As he has done often throughout his Brandeis career, Vincent Asante '14 put forth a strong performance in the 200-meter dash, placing 11th in 22.92 seconds against a tough field that included competitors from BU, BC and UMass-Lowell. Tai Che '15 and Mackalani Mack '16 also put forth solid showings in the event, taking 31st and 33rd, respectively.

Nick Wactor '17 and Jeremy Wilson '17 meanwhile, shined in their collegiate debuts in the 400-meter dash. Wactor placed 21st in 54.42 seconds while Wilson fell just behind at the finish line, taking 24th in 54.59.

Trevor Tuplin '16 placed 17th in the 500-meter dash, running the distance in one minute, 12.87 seconds. Brandon Odze '16 and Joshua Romanowicz '17 took the next two places in the race, earning 18th and 19th with times of 1:15.48 and 1:15.92.

Yet, Omar Scruggs '17 made an impressive debut in the 800-meter run. The first-year completed the four-lap middle distance race in 1:57.38, taking fourth place and besting competitors from Northeastern, Bryant and Central Connecticut.

Additionally for the Judges, Matthew Becker '16 took second in his heat and 14th overall, timing in at 2:08.03 overall.

The Judges will next lace up their spikes on Jan. 12, 2014 at the prestigious Dartmouth Relays hosted by Dartmouth College.

While the competition at the meet promises to be stiff, the Judges-who will also host the University Athletic Association Championships from Feb. 28-Mar. 1, 2014-have reason to be optimistic following the first race of this season.

The team could not be reached for comment at press time.