Laird Wins USA Junior Javelin Championship

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas freshman Luke Laird won the javelin throw at the USA Junior Championships in Columbus, Ohio on Friday. Two Razorbacks also qualified for the finals in their events.

With a toss of 219-8, Laird topped 18 other throwers to take the Junior National title. His best toss of the day was also his last toss of the day. The victory marks his second major title win this season, including his SEC title win. Laird’s win also secured him a spot on Team USA at the World Junior Championships in Poland in July.

Chris Bilbrew and Duncan Phillips advanced to the finals in the 800 meters and 1,500 meters, respectively. Bilbrew was the fifth fastest qualifier in the 800 meters with a time of 1:50.81. He will run in Saturday’s finals.

Phillips finished fifth, of 19 runners, in the 1,500-meter run. He clocked a time of 3:52.67 to advance to Sunday’s finals.

Spencer McCorkel competed in the pole vault on Friday. He could not clear a bar but had two near misses at 16-4.75.

For complete results from the USA Junior Championships, visit www.ustaf.org. For more information about Arkansas track and field, visit www.hogwired.com.