by Eric Willuweit
Rochester, N.Y. - As the first Scarlet Hawk to qualify for nationals in program history, Olivia Jameson of the Illinois Tech women's track and field team acquitted herself and the team quite well, as the first-year high-jumper finished in the top half of the high jump event at the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field Championships Thursday night at St. John Fisher University in Rochester, New York.
Jameson topped out at 1.66 meters (5' 5.25") for her last successful jump, officially placing tied for 11th place in the field of the top 22 high jumpers nationally in Division III.
Jameson came away with positive thoughts about the experience, and is looking forward to building on it next year.
"It was an amazing experience being able to compete against some of the most talented girls in the country for D3, most of whom we don't get the chance to see during our regular season" said Jameson. "I'm already excited to start the next season and continue working to improve and grow alongside the team."
The field of 22 included only three seniors, and Jameson was one of six first-year jumpers in the event. Should she return to nationals next season, she is more than likely to meet up with many of the same competitors.
Jameson cleared her first two heights of 1.56 and 1.61 meters respectively each on her first attempt. On the third height of 1.66 meters, Jameson faulted on her first two jumps before clearing the bar on her third and final attempt. She was unsuccessful in her three attempts at 1.69 meters. Jameson's personal record is 1.68 meters, so she will be looking to improve upon that next season in her quest to qualify and go deeper at nationals.
Head Coach Tyler McQuality was happy that Jameson was able to have this experience in her first-year season, and is looking forward to her achievements with the team moving forward.
"I am extremely proud of how Olivia competed in her first national meet and represented our program as our first national meet qualifier" said McQuality. "She cleared three heights and was very close to the 4th that would have landed her All-American honors. We are excited for her to have this opportunity in the environment to take with her in future national meets."
Olivia Jameson flanked by assistant coach Ed Harvey(left) and head coach Tyler McQuality(right).