The Northern Arizona Lumberjacks faced a highly competitive field at the New Mexico Collegiate Classic, showcasing strong performances across various events. Sophomore Josiah Johnson shone in the men's 200 meters, achieving a personal best of 21.19, placing him No. 6 in NAU history and leading the Big Sky this season. Other highlights included multiple season-best performances from the women in the 200 meters, particularly Jordann Germain and Shanye Harris. In the weight throw, Desmond Lott secured second place with a throw of 20.84 meters, while Sariyah Horne-Kemp also excelled with a third-place finish in her event. Coach Ernie Clark praised the team's potential and resilience despite some challenges on the long jump runway.

By the Numbers
  • Josiah Johnson's 200 meter time of 21.19 ranks him No. 6 all-time at NAU.
  • Desmond Lott finished second in the men's weight throw with a mark of 20.84 meters.
  • Sariyah Horne-Kemp's 18.93 meters ranks her second in the Big Sky standings.
State of Play
  • The latest meet featured numerous personal bests for the Lumberjacks, particularly in the sprints and throws.
  • Field events will continue with championship-style competition on Saturday, emphasizing both sprints and jumps.
  • Team morale is high, with athletes encouraged by their performances despite less-than-ideal conditions.
What's Next

Looking forward, the Lumberjacks are set to compete in championship-style events that will include hurdles, sprints, and relays. Athletes like Johnson and Germain will aim to build on their current momentum as they strive for further success. The team's performance against elite competition will likely inform future training strategies and competitions.

Bottom Line

The Lumberjacks showcased significant potential at the New Mexico Collegiate Classic, with numerous athletes hitting personal bests and climbing conference rankings. As they move forward, the focus will be on maintaining this momentum and leveraging their competitive experiences to enhance performance further. The blend of skill and determination signals a promising season ahead.