The Southern Utah men's track and field team achieved a historic milestone by capturing their first Big Sky Outdoor Championship in 2019. The championship culminated in a dramatic final event—the men's 4x400-meter relay—where the Thunderbirds, initially outside contention, finished second with a school-record time of 3:10.94. This performance, driven by strategic scoring and contributions across various events, allowed Southern Utah to surpass competitors Northern Arizona and Montana in a closely contested meet.

By the Numbers
  • Southern Utah's men's 4x400-meter relay team set a school record with a time of 3:10.94.
  • Devon Montgomery won the 110-meter hurdles with a time of 14.15 and added a silver in the 400-meter hurdles.
  • Justin Lewis won the 400-meter dash, setting a new school record of 46.66.
  • Cannon Brunsvik broke the shot put school record with a mark of 59' 1 ¼".
  • Skyler Porcaro secured the javelin title with a record throw of 234' 9".
Yes, But

While the Thunderbirds celebrated their title, they were still competing against historically strong programs like Northern Arizona. The tense nature of the competition highlighted the fragility of success, as standings shifted rapidly throughout the meet, necessitating strategic adjustments by Southern Utah.

State of Play
  • The meet showcased Southern Utah's preparation, involving strategic adjustments, particularly in the 10,000 meters.
  • Every event group contributed points, demonstrating depth and teamwork crucial for securing the championship.
  • The final standings were competitive, with the Thunderbirds needing to excel in the relay to clinch the title.
What's Next

As Southern Utah celebrates its championship, the focus will shift to building on this success under head coach Eric Houle, who is concluding his tenure. The program aims to maintain momentum in future competitions and attract new talent for continued excellence in track and field.

Bottom Line

The Thunderbirds' victory at the 2019 Big Sky Outdoor Championship underscores the importance of teamwork, strategic planning, and resilience in overcoming challenges. This defining moment serves as a testament to the growth of the program and the legacy of coach Eric Houle, marking a new era in Southern Utah's athletics.