Kam Garrett Shines at NCAA Outdoor Championships, Clinching All-America Honors
EUGENE, Ore. – In a thrilling display of athletic prowess, Kam Garrett, the high jumper representing Illinois, captured All-America honors at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, finishing fourth with a jump of 2.20m (7-2 ½) at the iconic Hayward Field on June 13. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone for both Garrett and the Illinois track and field program.
A Historic Achievement for Illini Athletics
Garrett’s remarkable performance not only earned him individual accolades but also etched his name in the history books as the first Illini men’s high jumper to be recognized as an All-American in 16 years, following in the footsteps of Greg Shroka in 2009. This honor also brings the program’s total to eight outdoor NCAA First-Team All-America titles in the high jump event.
A Season to Remember
As Garrett wraps up his junior season, his athletic journey has been nothing short of spectacular. He became an All-American for the first time this year and previously showcased his talent by securing a silver medal at the Big Ten Outdoor Championships, clearing 2.14m (7-0 ¼). This season, he has solidified his status as a formidable competitor, amassing an impressive collection of accolades: a one-time All-American and a three-time Big Ten medalist, including two silvers and one bronze in the high jump.
The Heptathlon: Mixed Results for Illinois
Competing alongside Garrett were his teammates Lucie Kienast and Melissa Wullschleger, who completed the first four events of the heptathlon. Wullschleger currently sits in seventh place with 3,503 points, highlighted by a stellar fourth-place finish in the shot put, throwing 13.61m (44-8). Meanwhile, Kienast occupies 13th place with 3,407 points, showcasing her talent with an eighth-place finish in the shot put at 12.86m (42-2 ¼).
In a less favorable turn, Viktor Morozov—the current Big Ten Outdoor Champion in the triple jump—was unable to record a mark in today’s competition. However, he finishes the season with impressive credentials, including a triple jump of 15.81m (51-10 ½) that earned him a bronze medal during the indoor season.
Team Standings
In the overall standings, the Illinois men’s track and field team concluded the championships in 44th place out of 72 teams, amassing 6.5 points—five of which came from Kam Garrett’s standout performance and the remaining points added by Cody Johnston in the pole vault.
Heptathlon Performance Recap
Melissa Wullschleger – Seventh Place (3,503 points)
- 4th in the shot put: 13.61m (44-8)
- 11th in the 100mH: 13.75
- 14th in high jump: 1.66m (5-5 ¼)
- 16th in 200m: 24.70
Lucie Kienast – 13th Place (3,407 points)
- 8th in the shot put: 12.86m (42-2 ¼)
- 9th in high jump: 1.69m (5-6 ½)
- 15th in 200m: 24.68
- 23rd in 100mH: 14.34
What’s Next for Illinois?
Looking ahead, the women’s team is set to continue their journey at the NCAA Outdoor Championships. The heptathlon resumes on June 14 at 5:30 p.m., with Rose Yeboah competing in the high jump at 7:30 p.m. CT. Fans can catch the excitement live on ESPN2 or stream specific events on ESPN+.
For full results and updates, check out the official NCAA Outdoor Championships.
In conclusion, Kam Garrett’s feat not only elevates his personal journey but also propels the Illinois athletics program into a new era of competitive excellence. His resilience and determination underscore a season filled with potential and triumph. Here’s hoping for more inspiring performances as the championships progress!
