Perez, Buytaert Compete at USF Alumni Meet

TEMPLE TERRACE, Fla. – The University of Tampa men's and women's track teams turned in a strong showing at the 2026 USF Alumni Invitational, held March 20–21 at the USF Track and Field Stadium, highlighted by standout performances in the middle distances and steeplechase events.

The Spartans were led on the women's side by Hannah Diete, who delivered a breakthrough performance in the 1,500 meters, placing second overall in 4:28.5. Diete's time meets the NCAA provisional standard and currently stands as the fastest mark in the Sunshine State Conference this season. Kendra Krueger also impressed in the 800 meters, finishing 10th in 2:11.7 in a deep and nationally competitive field.

On the men's side, Tampa shined in the 2,000‑meter steeplechase, where Isaac Perez led the Spartans with a third‑place finish in 6:36.8, followed closely by Sam Buytaert in fourth place at 6:36.9, giving UT two top‑four finishes in the event.

Top Tampa Performers (Men)

2000m Steeplechase:
In the men's 2,000‑meter steeplechase, Isaac Perez paced the Spartans with a 3rd‑place finish in 6:36.8, while Sam Buytaert followed closely behind in 4th place (6:36.9).

Top Tampa Performers (Women)

800 Meters:
In the women's 800 meters, Kendra Krueger led Tampa with a 10th‑place finish in 2:11.7.

1,500 Meters:
In the women's 1,500 meters, Hannah Diete turned in a standout performance, placing 2nd in 4:28.5, earning an NCAA provisional qualifying time that currently ranks first in the Sunshine State Conference.

Up Next

The Spartans return to action next week with a busy stretch on the road:

• WashU Distance Carnival
  Thursday–Friday, March 26–27
  Bushyhead Track – St. Louis, Mo.

• UCF Knights Invite
  Friday–Saturday, March 27–28
  UCF Track and Field/Soccer Complex – Orlando, Fla.