EUGENE – Texas A&M’s first team points at the NCAA Championships were picked up in the men’s pole vault during the first day of action in front of 9,165 fans at Hayward Field. The Aggies also advanced eight entries to finals during semifinal races on Wednesday.

Deon Lendore led A&M in posting the leading time of 45.18 seconds in the 400 meter semifinal races while Shamier Little improved her career best in the 400 hurdles to 55.58, which is No. 5 on the all-time U.S. Junior list.

Advancing to finals in their respective events were Shavez Hart in the men’s 100, Olivia Ekponé and Jennifer Madu in the women’s 100 as well as Little and Janeil Bellille in the 400 hurdles. Both Aggie 4x100 relays also qualified for finals.