Once again, excellence is on full display with Howard University Athletics, where standout performances continue to elevate the Bison on the national stage. This time, it’s junior sprinter Yahnari Lyons who is leaving her competition in the dust. 

At the Tom Jones Memorial in Gainesville, Florida last weekend, Lyons delivered a performance that firmly places her among the nation’s elite, clocking a 22.34 in the 200 meters — a time that ranks second in the nation and fourth in the world. The mark not only secured her a gold medal at the meet, but also earned her Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Track Athlete of the Week honors this week, further cementing her status as one of the conference’s premier competitors. 

For Lyons, the moment reflects both preparation and progression. Competing against some of the top talent in the country in various meets this season, her performance last week signals that Howard’s presence in national sprint conversations is not just emerging — it’s established, especially after the women’s team strong showing in the 2025 NCAA Track and Field Championships last June. 

The women’s track and field program enters one of the most competitive stretches of the season with confidence and consistency. Fresh off capturing its fifth consecutive MEAC Indoor Track and Field championship back in February, the team has carried that momentum into the outdoor campaign with strong showings across multiple events and eyeing a fifth consecutive outdoor title as well. 

In addition to Lyons’ national ranking, the Bison have seen impressive performances in the field, including senior criminology major Kelis Armstrong, whose conference-leading mark in the triple jump continues to anchor the team’s depth. 

Under the leadership of Head Coach David Oliver (B.B.A. ‘04), the women’s team has built a culture defined by discipline, versatility, and championship expectations. Whether on the track or in the field, the Bison continue to demonstrate the ability to compete — and win — at the highest levels. 

On the men’s side, the Bison have shown steady growth throughout the outdoor season, positioning themselves as a competitive force within the MEAC. Sophomore Elijah Grant was listed as a “top performer” for the MEAC after taking sixth place in the 400 meters at the Tom Jones Memorial with a MEAC-leading time of 46.33. 

Following a solid indoor campaign that included strong relay performances and All-MEAC honors, the men’s team has focused on refining execution and building momentum heading into championship season. Their depth across sprint and relay events remains a key strength, with continued development expected as they approach their biggest meets of the year. 

All Eyes on the Penn Relays 

Next up: one of the most prestigious events in track and field, the Penn Relays. 

Held annually in Philadelphia, the Penn Relays bring together elite collegiate, professional, and international athletes at the University of Pennsylvania’s Franklin Field, offering a national stage. For Howard, the meet represents both opportunity and exposure. 

For Lyons and the Bison, it’s a chance to: 

• Compete against top-tier national talent. 
• Continue improving times and marks. 
• Showcase Howard’s growing prominence in track and field. 

The Relays also serve as a critical measuring stick as teams fine-tune their performances ahead of conference championships. 

Looking Ahead: The Road to the MEAC Championships in Norfolk 

Following the Penn Relays, both teams will compete in the Aggie Classic at North Carolina A&T on May 1, before turning their full attention to the 2026 MEAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships, set to take place May 14 -16 in Norfolk, Virginia. 

With championship pedigree on the women’s side and rising momentum from the men’s team, Howard begins the final stretch of the 2026 regular season meet with clear ambitions: 

• Defend and extend its dominance on the women’s side. 
• Position the men’s team for a strong conference finish. 
• Translate regular season success into championship results. 

A Program on the Rise 

From nationally ranked sprint performances to consistent conference success, Howard track and field continues to embody the university’s standard of excellence. 

Lyons’ 22.34 is more than just a time — it’s a statement. A signal that Howard is not only competing with the best in the MEAC, but also making its presence felt across the national landscape. 

As the Bison head into a pivotal stretch of the season, one thing is clear: The standard has been set, and Howard is running toward even greater heights.