Rochester, NY - The Alfred University men's track & field team began the 2026 Empire 8 Outdoor Track & Field Championships on Friday at St. John Fisher University. 

David Winchenbach (Jefferson, ME/Lincoln Academy) was impressive throughout the first day of competition, qualifying for the All-Atlantic Regional Track & Field Outdoor Championships in the 110-meter hurdles, placing sixth with a personal-best time of 15.40. Winchenbach additionally competed in the decathlon for the Saxons. 

Zion Baitey (Morristown, NJ/Morristown) reached the finals following his efforts in the long jump, placing fifth with a best mark of 6.86m (22'-6.25"). 

Jonathan Hodges (Kenmore, NY/Kenmore West) finished in the top 10 in the 400-meter dash for Alfred University with a time of 50.05. 

The Saxons picked up points thanks to the efforts by Aidan Bieron (Buffalo, NY/Kenmore West), Zachary Schultz (Middleport, NY/Royalton-Hartland), Jacob Taylor (Cohocton, NY/Avoca) and Finnegan Dean (Potsdam, NY/Potsdam Central) in the 4x800-meter relay, as the group came in seventh place with a time of 8:40.11. 

Alfred University will next conclude the Empire 8 Championships on Saturday.