The UNC Asheville track and field team competed at their final regular season meet this past weekend at Western Carolina, where sophomore sprinter Alexis Vaughan delivered a strong performance in the 400 meters. In one of her first races of the outdoor season, Vaughan moved herself into the top 10 in the Big South Conference, showing late in the season she is ready to compete at a high level heading into the conference meet.
Along with her conference ranking, Vaughan also made history for the program. Her time in the 400 placed her top three all time in school history, adding her name to one of the program’s most competitive event groups. She also has been making progress in the 200 meters this season, where she recently moved into the top 10 all time at UNC Asheville.
“It felt good to finally open up in the 400,” Vaughan said. “I’ve been working on trusting my race and staying patient through the first part, so it was nice to see that come together.”
The 400 meters is known for being one of the more demanding events on the track, requiring both speed and endurance. For Vaughan, the focus has been on maintaining her form and staying controlled throughout the race, especially against strong competition.
“I just try to stay relaxed early and then finish strong,” she said. “Once I hit that last 100, it’s all about competing and not letting up.”
Her improvements in both 200 and 400 highlights her versatility as a sprinter and her ability to contribute in multiple events. As the season has gone on, she has contributed to build confidence with each race and adjust to the rhythm of both events.
“I’ve just been trying to get better each meet,” Vaughan said. “Not worrying too much about times, but focusing on what I can control and trusting the work we’ve been putting in.”
Being ranked among the top athletes in school history is something Vaughan takes pride in, but she remains focused on what’s ahead as the championship portion of the season approaches.
“It means a lot to be up there, but I know there’s still more I can do,” she said. “I’m just trying to keep improving and be ready for the conference.”
With post season competition coming up, Vaughan’s early season marks have positioned her as an important piece for UNC Asheville. Her performance at Western Carolina not only showed her potential this season, but also continued to build on her place within the program’s record books. As the team continues training this week, the focus will be on sharpening race execution and staying consistent going into the next meet.
As the team prepares for the Big South Championships, Vaughan will look to carry that momentum moving forward. With strong marks in both sprint events and a steady approach to racing, she is set up to make an impact when it matters most.
