The 2026 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships begin today, and there is no shortage of compelling storylines. Consider this weekend a world-lead watch, collegiate-record watch, and, given the NCAA's strong international presence, a national-record watch as well. Nearly every event carries major significance, but a few storylines stand out above the rest.

Memorial Day Weekend brought elite racing, breakthrough performances, and early signs of what could become a historic 2026 season.

Two collegiate records fell Friday night at the Bryan Clay Invitational, with BYU freshman Jane Hedengren and New Mexico junior Habtom Samuel each delivering standout performances in the 5000m.

Track and field fans were treated to one of the busiest weekends of the year, with three major national championships unfolding simultaneously across the country.

Two standout rivalries have defined the 2026 Indoor season, breaking records and delivering exciting races: BYU's Jane Hedengren vs. Alabama's Doris Lemngole, and Villanova's Marco Langon vs. New Mexico's Habtom Samuel. Both pairs are set to clash in the 3000m and 5000m at the 2026 NCAA Indoor Track & Field Championships next weekend, March 13-14 in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Ishmael Kipkurui of New Mexico broke the NCAA record in the men’s 10,000m Saturday night at Sound Running's The TEN.

The TEN returns to San Juan Capistrano, California, on March 29, 2025, for a day of races that has become iconic within the track and field community.

As the UNM Dr.Martin Luther King Invitational approaches, there’s a lot to be excited about. From the University of New Mexico’s track and field team to other collegiate and professional athletes kicking off their seasons, this event will serve as a key marker to assess where everyone stands as the indoor season progresses.