BROOKINGS, S.D. –  In a season of remarkable firsts and historic highs, CIU wrapped up the third and final day of the NAIA Indoor Track & Field National Championships in South Dakota. The Rams had four competitors yesterday. On the final day of the championships CIU was represented by two athletes who were making their return trip to NAIA nationals, Blake Rimmer in pole vault and Deandre Leith in shot put. 

In pole vault, Rimmer cleared the qualifying mark on his first try before getting by the second mark on his last attempt. In the third round, he couldn't hit the mark, and finished the meet with a height of 15' 3", tying his season-best height. In the shot put, Leith had the misfortune of fouling twice, hampering his last attempt. He finished with a distance of 15.62 meters.  

What Coach Tim Thompson is saying: "I'm proud of these athletes. They are a young talented group of competitors and earned the right to compete as the "Nation's Best." The plan for this meet, to give our best efforts and trust God to guide and direct our paths. Unfortunately, we didn't reach the  "All-American" goal this go round, but we are grateful, hungry, and motivated! We will continue to move forward with inspired focus, motivation, and determination."

Up Next: The Rams will open the outdoor season on their home track at the Rams College Invite on Mar. 17-18.