Winston-Salem, N.C., December 7, 2025
The Charlotte 49ers track and field team is set to compete at the JDL Early Bird Invitational, marking a pivotal event as they conclude their activities for 2025. Building on recent successes, including record-breaking performances at the Liberty Kickoff, the team aims to leverage the enhancements of the new banked track at the JDL Fast Track facility to showcase their talent across various athletic events. This meet not only caps the year but also sets the stage for future competitions in 2026.
Charlotte 49ers Charge into JDL Early Bird Invitational
Team to Compete in Final Meet of 2025 before New Year
Winston-Salem, N.C. – The Charlotte 49ers track and field team is gearing up for the JDL Early Bird Invitational on December 7, 2025. This event marks their second competition in a week and serves as a significant milestone as they wrap up their activities before the transition into 2026.
The team’s excitement is palpable following a strong showing at the Liberty Kickoff Combined Events meet on December 4-5, where standout performances included Sasha Gregory’s new indoor pentathlon record and both Connor Wetherington and Joshua Horstmann achieving remarkable all-time rankings in men’s indoor heptathlon. This momentum sets a positive tone as they prepare to take on new challenges at the JDL Early Bird Invitational.
Performance Showcase at JDL Early Bird Invitational
The JDL Early Bird Invitational will feature a lineup of competitions including sprints, hurdles, distance runs, throws, and jumps – providing a comprehensive platform for showcasing athletic talent. In the previous season’s edition of the Invitational, Charlotte 49ers seniors delivered notable performances. They celebrated victories in several events and set impressive records, showcasing the depth of talent and competitive spirit within the team.
Facility Upgrades Enhance Athlete Performance
For this year’s event, the 49ers will compete on the new banked track at the JDL Fast Track facility, a significant upgrade designed to enhance athletic performance. Banked tracks promote faster times and can improve the overall experience for both competitors and spectators. This addition reflects ongoing investments in athletics that support local talent and foster competitive excellence.
Long-Term Impact and Future Competitions
The JDL Early Bird Invitational not only caps off the team’s activities for 2025 but also positions them to build on their successes when they resume competition in 2026. Following a month-long break, the 49ers will head to the Virginia Tech Invitational scheduled for January 16-17, 2026, providing another opportunity to further their competitive goals on a broader stage.
Supporting Local Sports and Community Development
The coordination of events like the JDL Early Bird Invitational highlights how local partnerships and community engagement can flourish with minimal bureaucracy. These gatherings not only uplift the sporting scene in Charlotte but also enhance community unity through shared experiences and support for local athletes. The resilience and initiative from both organizers and participants alike showcase the best of what athletic events can achieve in fostering community spirit.
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FAQ
What is the JDL Early Bird Invitational?
The JDL Early Bird Invitational is an indoor track and field meet held at the JDL Fast Track facility in Winston-Salem, N.C., featuring various events for sprinters, hurdlers, distance runners, throwers, and jumpers.
When is the JDL Early Bird Invitational taking place?
The event is scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025.
What notable achievements did the Charlotte 49ers have at last year’s JDL Early Bird Invitational?
Last season, seniors JaNeya Hammond and Sidney Littlejohn won their respective 60-meter hurdle events, Joyasia Smith recorded the then-second-best 60-meter time in program history, and Chaunesse Barringer and Mikai Hunt swept the triple jump events.
What is the significance of the new banked track at the JDL facility?
The newly installed banked track at the JDL facility is expected to enhance performance for athletes, providing a more efficient and faster racing surface.
When does the Charlotte 49ers track and field team resume competition after the JDL Early Bird Invitational?
The team will resume action in 2026 at the Virginia Tech Invitational in Blacksburg, Va., scheduled for January 16-17.
Key Features of the JDL Early Bird Invitational
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | JDL Fast Track, Winston-Salem, N.C. |
| Date | Sunday, December 7, 2025 |
| Events | Sprints, hurdles, distance runs, throws, jumps |
| Notable Achievements (2024) | Wins in 60m hurdles, second-best 60m time, triple jump sweeps |
| Facility Upgrade | Introduction of a new banked track |
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