LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ - Mariah Stephens would highlight Day 1 as the Rider University women's track and field team opened action at the 2024 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Outdoor Championships on Saturday. After the first day of competition at Michael P. Brady Track & Field Complex hosted by Rider University, the Broncs sit first on the women's side with 53 points overall.

Stephens would pick up the Broncs' lone gold medal on the first day of MAAC's as she would win the long jump with an ECAC/IC4A qualifying mark of 5.89. The first-place finish is also a new PR for Stephens. 

Rachel Schwenk was excellent for Rider in the Javelin, finishing 3rd with an ECAC/IC4A qualifying mark of 39.13m.

Samantha Kamara would help add points for Rider, finishing 4th in the Hammer Throw with a 49.44m throw.

QUOTES AND NOTES
"We had a very solid start to the championship. We had some exciting moments and some moments of struggle but overall we are in a good position. We need to take advantage of the opportunities tomorrow to put the team in a good position by the end of the day. We are looking forward to getting after it again tomorrow."

"Rachel had a huge throw in the javelin today to finish third. It was a very exciting moment to watch her hit that big throw. This is a really big moment for her."  

"Mariah had a big day culminating with a win in the long jump. She is such a big-time competitor for us in the MAAC Championships. She is setting an incredibly high standard." - Rider Director of Cross Country, Track & Field Bob Hamer