Bloomington, Ky. – A trio represented UPIKE Track and Field Friday afternoon at the Hoosier Open, a performance that included two personal marks and saw Noah Thomas qualify for his second consecutive NAIA Indoor Track and Field National Championships. 

Thomas competed in the weight throw event and after fouling on his first attempt, threw for a national qualifying distance of 16.39 on his second attempt. His third attempt would prove to be his best, launching a 16.76 meter throw that topped his previous personal record. Thomas made the mark to compete in the finals flight and finished 5^th of 10. Thomas has now qualified for four straight NAIA National Championships, throughout the last two indoor and outdoor seasons.

Espinoza was thrilled with his Junior thrower.

"Noah continues to improve and showcase the talent he brings to the team. It is always  great to see when you're facing high caliber completion. We have plenty left in the tank but seeing these results come in so early keeps us confident we'll be in a great position down the stretch."

Verlecia Scarlett competed in both the weight throw and shot-put events. She opened the afternoon with a 12.89 meter throw before launching a new personal best 14.87 on her second attempt. Her PR distance also reclaims her the school record in the event.  Scarlett found herself in the top nine to make finals, and finished 7^th of 12 in a field that included six NCAA DI competitors.  

Scarlett's performance in the shot-put saw the junior post her best throw on the second attempt, tossing for 10.35 meters to finish 12^th.

"Verlecia started us strong by smashing the school record in the weight, really happy to see the principles we practice help us succeed in completion," said Coach David Espinoza.

Valerie Kendrick found success in her return to the shot-put ring, making her way to the finals bracket. The sophomore opened with throws of 10.84 and 10.94, before tossing for over 11 meters in each of her next three attempts. Kendrick finished 8^th of 12. 
 
UPIKE track and field returns to action on Saturday, January 14th as they head to Columbus, Ohio for the Comets Invitational.