BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Kristian Jackson advanced to the NCAA Division I National Track and Field Championships in the discus for Southeastern Louisiana University Saturday during the final day of the 2022 NCAA East Regional Qualifiers in Bloomington, Indiana at the Robert C. Haugh Complex.
Jackson, out of Zachary, Louisiana, broke her own school record of 170-9 (52.04m) as she hurled one 176-8 (53.86m) Saturday on her second attempt to secure her spot in the national championships. The senior was in second place after two throws but had to wait anxiously to clinch her spot.
"I felt pretty confident I had a good chance since 53 meters was kind of the mark to hit to advance last year," said Jackson. "But I knew there was some good competition that had thrown 55-56 meters this year so I was kind of nervous waiting. But I would have been satisfied with my performance regardless of if I advanced."
Jackson finished seventh in the event Saturday as the top 12 all secured spots in the finals. As a result of advancing, Jackson's eight-year discus journey, which began at Zachary High School, reached a pinnacle as she earned NCAA All-American status.
"Just knowing that I've got to that point of my career, all I can be is happy," said Jackson. "It has a nice ring to it."
Jackson will compete in the National Championships Wednesday-Saturday June 8-11 at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.
Stay tuned to the Southeastern athletics' official website for more information on how to follow Jackson's quest for a national championship.
PODIUM CLUB/S CLUB
Fans interested in becoming active supporters of the track and field program are encouraged to join the Podium Club. Lion alums are encouraged to join the exclusive S Club, which is restricted to Southeastern athletic letter winners. All membership fees and donations to Podium Club are available for the exclusive use of the Southeastern track and field program. Membership information is available by contacting the Lion Athletics Association at
laa@southeastern.edu or (985) 549-5091 or visiting
www.LionUp.com.
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