Bears Build Momentum with Finals Qualifiers at Big Sky Championships

Friday, May 15

Portland, Ore.

All Day

University of Northern Colorado

Big Sky Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships

5/15/2026 9:16:00 PM | Men's Outdoor Track & Field, Women's Outdoor Track & Field

By: Elian Soto, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications

GRESHAM, Ore. – Northern Colorado continued competition at the 2026 Big Sky Outdoor Track & Field Championships on Friday at Mt. Hood Community College, highlighted by multiple event qualifiers and a pair of podium finishes on day three.

The Bears saw success on both the track and in the field, led by strong showings in the long jump events. On the men's side, Tyler Rogers placed second in the long jump with a mark of 7.38 meters to earn eight team points. On the women's side, Kiana Van Haaren matched that effort with a runner-up finish of her own, clearing 5.90 meters to also score eight points for Northern Colorado.

On the track, the Bears advanced several athletes through preliminary rounds into championship finals. Monique Stewart turned in an impressive performance in the women's 800 meters, winning her heat with a time of 2:07.42 to automatically qualify for the final. Alexia Austin also secured a spot in the finals, clocking a 13.67 in the women's 100-meter hurdles to earn an automatic qualifying position.

Northern Colorado saw continued momentum in the sprint events, as Raphael Egbuchilem advanced to the finals in the men's 400 meters after posting a qualifying time of 47.55. He later doubled back with another strong effort in the 200 meters, qualifying for the final with a time of 21.55.

In the hurdles, Daniel Beckford led the way for the men, advancing in both the 110-meter hurdles (14.21) and contributing to a group of Bears who moved on to the next round. Jaydon Sundbye also secured a qualifying spot in the 110 hurdles, continuing a strong day for Northern Colorado's hurdle group.

Distance events also featured key performances, as Regina Mpigachai advanced to the women's 1500-meter final with a qualifying time of 4:40.91.

The Bears added additional scoring in the field with depth performances, including a ninth-place finish from April Necaise in the women's high jump (1.63m).

Monique Stewart added her name to the Northern Colorado record book once again, posting a time of 2:07.42 in the 800 meters to rank fourth all time

UP NEXT: Northern Colorado closes out the Big Sky Outdoor Championships on Saturday with multiple athletes set to compete in event finals across the track and field.

RELAY CLUB: The Relay Club elevates the UNC Track & Field and Cross Country program by enhancing training resources, providing advanced shoes and apparel, and competitive travel opportunities that allow the Bears to perform at their best. These contributions enhance the student-athlete experience and help ensure the team continues to excel on the track and in the classroom.

Give to the Relay Club today!

FOLLOW THE BEARS: For complete coverage of UNC Athletics, check out the official homepage at uncbears.com. Follow the cross country and track and field teams on X (formerly Twitter) (@UNC_BearsTFXC), and Instagram (@UNC_BearsXCTF).