Duke Blue Devils men’s track wins an ACC championship for the first time in school history

In a groundbreaking moment for Duke University, the men’s track and field team clinched their first-ever Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Outdoor Championship in 2025. This monumental victory not only highlights the program’s ascent but also signifies a new era of excellence in Duke athletics.

The championship meet, held in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, saw the Blue Devils deliver exceptional performances across various events. Key contributors included:

• Simen Guttormsen: The pole vault specialist secured a gold medal with a clearance of 5.65 meters (18-6.5), showcasing his dominance in the event.
• Clayton Langston: Competing in the decathlon, Langston earned a silver medal, amassing 7,661 points, underscoring his versatility and endurance.
• Taylor Robinson: Robinson’s performance in the 400-meter hurdles earned him a bronze medal, contributing valuable points to the team’s total.

These individual achievements were pivotal in propelling Duke to the top of the standings, culminating in a team score that surpassed traditional powerhouses in the conference.

Duke’s success was a testament to strategic planning, rigorous training, and cohesive teamwork. Head coach Mark Hill, in his fifth year at the helm, emphasized a holistic approach to athlete development, focusing on both physical conditioning and mental resilience. The team’s depth across sprints, throws, jumps, and distance events allowed for consistent point accumulation throughout the meet.

• Marten Gasparini: The javelin thrower delivered a silver-medal performance with a throw of 68.73 meters (225-6), demonstrating precision and power.
• Johnson: In the hammer throw, Johnson secured a silver medal, contributing significantly to the team’s field event success.

These performances, among others, highlighted the team’s versatility and depth, essential components of their championship victory.

This historic win positions Duke’s men’s track and field program among the elite in collegiate athletics. The championship not only brings prestige but also enhances the program’s visibility, attracting top-tier recruits and increasing support from alumni and fans.

Looking ahead, Duke aims to build on this success, focusing on sustained excellence and continued development of its athletes. The 2025 ACC Championship serves as a foundation for future achievements, setting a high standard for the program’s aspirations.