James Ngandu got Tiffin University off on a strong start to the 2018 NCAA Men's Outdoor Track and Field Championships, winning the 10,000 meters.
Ngandu, who placed 2nd in the event last year, posted the title for the first time in his career. It garnered 10 points for the Dragons, who sit 2nd overall after the first day with 12 points. Grand Valley State was in first with 14 points, while Ashland was third with 11.
Ngandu finished in 29:19.91, winning by 7 seconds over Grand Valley State's Zach Panning. It was just 3 seconds behind his own school record.
Also getting TU points on day one was Vincent Vogel, who finished 7th in the long jump with 7.47 meters.
In preliminary action, TU had two sprinters qualify for the 100 meter finals. Jonte Baker was 4th overall in 10.43, while Reginald Thomas also qualified with a time of 10.56.
The 4x100 relay team of Baker, Thomas, Duane Boyd, and Michael King also qualified for the finals with a 4th place finish in 40.25.