TEMPE, Ariz. - Northern Arizona University's track & field team completed day one of competition at the Sun Angel Track Classic hosted by Arizona State University. The NAU throws unit led the way for the Lumberjacks as Lauren Stuart and Brooke Andersen took first place in their events for the women and Travis Colby followed suit for the men.

"I think we did well," said director of track & field and cross country Eric Heins. "The goal today was to improve on our Big Sky marks and add to our list of qualifiers. We definitely did that today in the women's hammer and men's javelin throw." 

Stuart has been rewriting the record books all season and today was no exception. The senior threw for a distance of 206-09 (63.03m) in the women's hammer throw. Stuart's mark is the third-best in school history, her third record breaking performance of the season in the event.

Andersen also took first place in her heat of the women's hammer throw. The NAU newcomer threw for a best of 190-01 (57.94m) on her final attempt in the preliminary round, catapulting her into the finals. Andersen's mark is a season-best for the freshman.

Ryan Wesson represented the Lumberjacks in the men's 5000m run. Wesson finished third in the race after running a time of 15:30.85.

On the women's side, Heather LaPlante and Kelly Fruth competed in the 5000m run. LaPlante's 18:09.55 performance garnered her a sixth place finish. Fruth took eighth and was clocked at 18:36.76.

Mesa Track & Field Classic 

Colby was the lone Lumberjack competing at the Mesa Track & Field Classic. Colby was not intimidated by the lack of numbers as he finished first in the men's javelin throw. The sophomore threw a best of 199-06 (60.81m), qualifying him for the Big Sky Outdoor Championships.