UVI Runners Make History in Championships
University of the Virgin Islands athletes J’Niah Jackson and Decquan Nisbett achieved historic finishes at the HBCU Athletic Conference Cross Country Championships in New Orleans. Jackson claimed third place in the women's division while Nisbett finished ninth in the men's race, setting new benchmark performances for the institution.
University of the Virgin Islands runners J’Niah Jackson and Decquan Nisbett delivered historic performances over the weekend, securing the institution's highest-ever placements at the 2026 HBCU Athletic Conference Cross Country Championships in New Orleans. Competing at City Park on Friday morning, Jackson delivered an exceptional race in the women’s division, crossing the finish line in third place to claim a podium spot.
Her teammate, Nisbett, produced an equally impressive display in the men’s division, battling through a competitive field to secure a top-ten finish in ninth place. The results represent a major milestone for the University of the Virgin Islands athletic programme, marking the university's best individual finishes at the conference level.
Both athletes demonstrated endurance and tactical discipline against top-tier competitors representing historically Black colleges and universities from across the United States. The accomplishments resonate across the wider Virgin Islands community, where sports enthusiasts and student-athletes maintain close ties with UVI.
For aspiring runners across both the British and United States Virgin Islands, these standout performances showcase the growing viability of regional collegiate athletic pathways and highlight the talent emerging from the Caribbean. University coaches and supporters have praised both runners for their dedication and preparation leading into the championships.
Their historic runs not only establish new benchmark records for the university's cross country team but also build momentum for the remainder of the collegiate athletics calendar as UVI continues to elevate its sporting profile on the intercollegiate stage.
Primary source: Virgin Islands Daily News (Website)