Senior Brent Randle is using this season as preparation with the intent to win at the National Association for Intercollegiate Athletics Indoor Track and Field Championships in March.
Randle has taken third twice at the national meet in triple jump, he holds the Baker University record in triple jump, he’s currently ranked second in the nation for the triple jump and sixth in the long jump, and is coming off a win against Division I athletes at Iowa State University.
It all started at the Tyler Street Christian Academy in Dallas. His senior year, Randle took first place in long jump and successfully defended his title for the second year in triple jump at the 2003 2A TAPPS State Championship.
Randle jumped 44-08 meters to win at the state meet in high school and is now ranked second in the NAIA for triple jump with a distance of 49-01.50.
Assistant track coach Mackie Valentin has worked closely with Randle since he came to Baker. He said Randle came in with a weight of 142 pounds and a lot of potential.
“We knew (Randle) would be an all-American someday,” he said. “He came in as the quiet Texas guy, but he leads. He’s the quintessential student-athlete that has one thing in mind: development.”
After Randle’s first year of hard work, Randle beat the field at the Heart of America Athletic Conference Championship. Valentin said Randle’s success has come from his dedication and hard work with the program.
“What you see there is 100 percent Baker program,” Valentin said. “He trusts the system, he trusts the coaches, and he trusts himself above all else. He’s the type of guy that sets a great example.”
Randle said his practice and competitiveness are what have helped him grow and become a leader on the team, and others agree.
“He’s not a big talker,” junior Zach Atzeni said. “He’s in the weight room working out all the time.”
Consistency and improving strength and technique is pivotal in succeeding in track, and that is what Randle brings to the team.
“For the two years I’ve been here, there’s never been a meet or practice that I’ve not seen Brent work to get better,” sophomore Katey Wegemer said. “Brent is definitely a leader, and he leads by example.”
As a senior, Randle is in his last year of eligibility in collegiate athletics.
“The Baker track program has been very fortunate to have him as a student-athlete. He truly is one of a kind,” Valentin said.
Head coach Rob Mallinder said Randle will have no trouble competing when it comes time to represent Baker at the national meet.
“His strongest attribute is rising to the occasion,” Mallinder said.