Jamaican middle-distance standout Tyrice Taylor delivered a career-best performance to book his place in the final of the men’s 800m at the NCAA Division 1 Outdoor Track and Field Championships on Wednesday at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

Competing in the first of three semi-final heats, the Arkansas junior clocked a lifetime best 1:45.23 to win the race and post the fastest qualifying time overall. The performance marked a significant milestone in Taylor’s career, highlighting his continued progression in the event.

He will be joined in the final by compatriot and Arkansas teammate Rivaldo Marshall, who secured automatic qualification from heat three after finishing second in 1:47.14.

Oregon’s Koitatoi Kidali (1:45.31) and Mississippi State’s Samuel Navarro (1:45.32) also advanced from Taylor’s heat, both registering personal bests in the process. In fact, the top five finishers in that race all recorded lifetime bests, underscoring the high quality of the competition.

The men’s 800m final is scheduled for Friday evening, where Taylor and Marshall will carry Jamaican hopes in pursuit of NCAA glory.

Photos: University of Arkansas Razorbacks