Mateo Bianchi became the first Boston College steeplechaser in nearly 60 years to qualify for the NCAA Championships as he and the Boston College Track & Field Team competed in Lexington, Kentucky, on May 29. Bianchi participated in the NCAA East First Round, starting Friday’s action in the 3000-meter steeplechase during the second of three heats. He remained among the top six throughout most of the race and finished with a time of 8:39.05, securing the final qualifying spot for the NCAA Championships.
Bianchi’s performance marked both a new personal best and a school record for Boston College in this event. He is now set to become the first Boston College athlete to compete in the 3000-meter steeplechase at an NCAA Championship since Bill Norris did so in 1967.
In addition to Bianchi’s achievement, Theodor Schucht ran a time of 13:53.78 during the 5000-meter semifinal, finishing 13th overall and just one place short of qualifying for nationals.
The team concluded its participation after two days of competition at this stage.
