June 27, 2014

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Senior Chris Royster and freshman Briana Haith moved on to the semifinals of their respective events at the 2014 USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships in Sacramento, Calif., on Thursday.

Royster, who just wrapped up his eligibility at South Carolina, moved on to the 100-meter dash semifinals on time, clocking in at 10.34. While he finished fifth in his heat, his time was ninth-best overall. He will run in the semifinals on Friday at 9:07 p.m. ET and in the finals at 11:52 p.m. ET should he advance again.

After collecting a pair of All-America certificates on relays in her freshman campaign, Haith continued her season in the 400 meters, posting a 54.15 and advancing on time to Friday’s semifinals at 10:35 pm ET. Gamecock alum and defending USATF outdoor champion Natasha Hastings also advanced to the 400 meter final, automatically moving through with a time of 51.48.

Clayton Gravesande returned to the track in the 400-meters after redshirting for the Gamecocks this season. Gravesande finished 21st with a 46.96.

South Carolina was well represented in the women’s 100-meters, with alum Shalonda Solomon advancing to Friday’s semifinals with her 11.43 into a headwind. Current Gamecock Ahtyana Johnson crossed at 11.96 to finish 24th. Miki Barber and Lakya Brookins also ran in the 100 meters, placing 19th (11.65) and 25th (12.05), respectively.

Action continues at Sacramento State University’s Hornet Stadium on Friday. In addition to more rounds of the 100 and 400 meters, sophomore Tyler Brockington hits the track in the women’s 400-meter hurdles along with former Gamecocks Lashinda Demus and Tiffany Ross Williams. Johnny Dutch is entered into the men’s 400-meter hurdles as well. The meet continues through Sunday.