GRINNELL, Iowa – The Lawrence University men's track and field team captured a conference championship and set a new program record Friday to headline a strong opening day at the Midwest Conference Indoor Championships.

The sprint medley relay team of Benjamin Baldwin, Nick Lubin, Tristan Zook, and Zach Meyer claimed the conference title in 3:33.65, successfully defending last year's championship to become back-to-back Midwest Conference champions. Their performance also set a new Lawrence program record in the event.

In the 5000 meters, Finn Lee secured a runner-up finish in 15:01.76 to earn eight points for the Vikings. Hardy Caleb, Max Reemtsma, and Francis Alexander also represented Lawrence in the event.

The mile added key points as Nick Hansen placed fifth in 4:22.84 and Tristen Gray finished eighth in 4:28.81.

The 4x200 relay team of Baldwin, Brendan Cross, Cannon Smithers, and Marcus Jackson finished sixth.

In the field events, Connor Skarsten led Lawrence in the shot put, with Corbin Schneider, Jack McLaughlin, and JC Arocho also competing. Peyton Mueller and Jacob Johnson represented the Vikings in the long jump.

After Day 1, the Lawrence men sit fifth in the team standings with 26 points heading into the final day of competition.