Ward Jumps at NCAA Championships Today
SIUE men’s track and field senior La'Derrick Ward will compete in the long jump in his third NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships today in Eugene, Oregon, at the University of Oregon's Hayward Field.
Ward will compete this evening at 7:15 p.m. (CT). The event will be broadcast on ESPNU and ESPN3.
This year’s Ohio Valley Conference Male Field Athlete of the Year, Ward enters the meet ranked No. 2 after a first-place jump of 26 feet, 8.5 inches at the NCAA West Preliminaries. Only Marquis Dendy of Florida has recorded a longer jump this season at 26-10.5.
“There will be a lot of talent there, but he is just as talented and is more prepared than last year,” said Head Coach Eileen McAllister. “He is confident and poised. This will be his third time competing at this venue, so he is more comfortable. He is excited and ready to compete.”
In his sophomore campaign, Ward just missed on all three attempts and earned Honorable Mention All-America status. A season ago, he placed fourth in the long jump and was a first team All-America.
“Last year, his preparation was equally strong compared to this year,” said Jumps Coach Iliyan Chamov. “He is ready to peak at this competition. He's healthy, experienced, and confident.”
