Record-Breaking Performances Shine on Day 2 of the USATF Indoor Championships
The USATF Indoor Championships wrapped up in thrilling fashion on Sunday at the Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex, with record-breaking performances and dramatic finishes in the middle-distance events taking center stage.
Men’s 800 Sets New American Record
Josh Hoey delivered a historic performance in the men’s 800 meters, setting a new American indoor record with a blistering time of 1:43.24, making him the second-fastest man ever at this distance indoors. Hoey, who already held the American record from his run at the Millrose Games, shaved .66 seconds off his previous mark. Brandon Miller clocked a personal best of 1:44.26 for second place, moving to No. 4 on the U.S. all-time list, while Wes Ferguson claimed bronze in 1:44.92, ranking No. 6 all-time. Hoey took control early, reaching 200 meters in 24.73 and hitting the halfway point in 50.36 before closing with a strong 26.54 final lap.
Hiltz and Kessler Dominate the 1500m
Nikki Hiltz showcased their dominance in the women’s 1500 meters, securing their third consecutive U.S. indoor title with a season-best 4:05.76. Hiltz led the race at 800 meters in 2:16.32 before unleashing a 58.62 final 400 to hold off Sinclaire Johnson (4:06.05) and Heather MacLean (4:06.69), both of whom ran season bests.
On the men’s side, Hobbs Kessler completed a rare distance double, winning the 1500 meters in 3:38.82 a day after setting a meet record in the 3000 meters. Kessler led from the early stages, with Sam Prakel (3:39.14) and Luke Houser (3:39.27) battling for podium spots. Kessler’s final lap surge solidified his win, making him the first man since 2018 to claim both the 1500 and 3000 titles at the indoor championships.
Women’s 800 and 400m Produce Tight Finishes
Nia Akins defended her title in the women’s 800 meters, sprinting past Valery Tobias in the final stretch with a lifetime best of 1:59.31. Tobias clocked 1:59.55 for silver, while Sage Hurta-Klecker finished third in an indoor personal best of 2:00.13.
Alexis Holmes defended her U.S. indoor title in the 400 meters, leading from start to finish to win in 50.51. Arkansas redshirt Rosey Effiong took silver in 51.43, and Olympic gold medalist Quanera Hayes placed third in 51.47.
Sprint and Field Event Highlights
Ronnie Baker returned to the top of the podium in the men’s 60 meters, running 6.52 to win his first indoor national title since 2017. Celera Barnes edged out Jacious Sears in a photo finish in the women’s 60 meters, winning in 7.11 seconds.
In the men’s long jump, Will Williams reclaimed his 2023 title with an 8.16m leap in the fifth round, while Tripp Piperi secured his first U.S. indoor gold in the shot put with a final-round throw of 21.50m. Vashti Cunningham extended her reign in the women’s high jump, winning her ninth consecutive U.S. indoor title with a 1.94m clearance.
