Day 2 Recap of the NCAA Track and Field Championships Shines with Record-Breaking Performances
EUGENE, Ore. — The 2024 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships witnessed astounding feats on its second day, highlighted by record-breaking performances across multiple events at Hayward Field.
Men's Decathlon: Leo Neugebauer's Historic Achievement
Texas standout Leo Neugebauer etched his name in the annals of track and field history by defending his NCAA Outdoor title with a groundbreaking performance in the decathlon. Scoring 8,961 points, Neugebauer not only shattered the collegiate record but also posted the sixth-best score ever recorded globally in the event.
From an outstanding day one total of 4,685 points to breaking the world decathlon discus record with a throw of 57.70m, Neugebauer's display was a clinic in versatility and power. His consistent excellence across events, including matching his personal best in the pole vault and a commanding lead in the javelin, culminated in a decisive 1500m run to seal the historic victory. This performance marked him as the first Longhorn to win consecutive NCAA Outdoor event titles since Ryan Crouser in shot put during 2013-14.
Women's Long Jump: Ackelia Smith Continues to Soar
Ackelia Smith, also from the University of Texas, defended her NCAA long jump title with a leap of 6.79m on her third attempt. Smith's repeat victory makes her the first Longhorn woman in nearly two decades to win back-to-back NCAA Outdoor titles, echoing the accomplishments of high jumper Destinee Hooker from 2006-07.
Women's Hammer Throw: Elisabet Rut Runarsdottir Dominates
In the hammer throw, Texas State's Elisabet Rut Runarsdottir emerged victorious with a commanding throw of 70.47 meters, outdistancing her nearest competitor with two throws exceeding 70 meters.
Women's Pole Vault: Chloe Timberg's Historic Win for Rutgers
Rutgers' Chloe Timberg captured the NCAA title in the women's pole vault, clearing a meet-record height of 4.71m. Her triumph marks the first NCAA track and field title for a Rutgers athlete since 1983, an accolade last claimed by sprinter Elliott Quow.
Women's Javelin: Rhema Otabor Sets New Standards
Nebraska's Rhema Otabor retained her javelin title with a record-breaking throw of 64.19m, surpassing previous collegiate, NCAA Championship meet, school, and national records. Otabor's victory solidifies her legacy as a premier javelin thrower with multiple All-American honors and NCAA titles.
Women's Shot Put: Jaida Ross Claims Her First National Title
Oregon Ducks' Jaida Ross won the women's shot put with a throw of 19.57m, securing her first NCAA title. Her performance follows a record-setting throw over 20 meters at the Pac-12 Championships, highlighting her as one of the top shot-putters in collegiate history.
Women's 10000m: Parker Valby Sets the Pace
In long-distance running, Florida's Parker Valby triumphed in the 10,000 meters with a record-setting time of 31:46.09, marking her fifth NCAA title. This victory propelled Florida to the lead in the women's team rankings after six events.
