Caisa-Marie Lindfors Secures Spot at NCAA Championships: A Golden Bear Achievement
California’s Caisa-Marie Lindfors has made history, heading to her third NCAA Outdoor Championships, and marking her debut as a Golden Bear. This milestone unfolds a thrilling chapter for both Lindfors and the university’s storied athletics program.
Strong Showing at the NCAA West Regionals
In an exhilarating finale at E.B. Cushing Stadium, Lindfors shone brightly among the five Golden Bear women competing at the NCAA West Regionals. Her outstanding performance not only secured her a coveted place in the upcoming championships but also brought Cal’s total qualifiers to an impressive eight.
Lindfors, an Olympian and seasoned contender, became the first California woman to clinch a discus spot since Kelechi Anyanwu in 2007. Her remarkable throw of 59.03 meters (193 feet 8 inches) placed her third overall, solidifying her position as the fifth female thrower in program history to advance to the NCAA Championships— a testament to her unparalleled skills and determination.
Record-Breaking Trip to the Championships
This year’s championship will be particularly special for Lindfors. Though this marks her third appearance at the NCAA Championships, she’ll represent California for the first time, having previously competed for Florida State in 2023 and 2023. Her journey has come full circle, and the anticipation surrounding her upcoming performance is palpable.
Other Standout Performances at the Regionals
Lindfors wasn’t the only Golden Bear to shine at the NCAA West Regionals. Asjah Atkinson and Saqqara Ruffin made waves in the 100m hurdles quarterfinals, with Atkinson clocking in at 13.28 seconds and Ruffin significantly improving her personal record to 13.35 seconds, ranking sixth in California’s all-time list.
In the triple jump, Myla Canty displayed resilience after two fouls, launching a wind-aided mark of 13.03 meters (42 feet 9 inches) on her third attempt, further solidifying her status as a powerful competitor this season.
NCAA West Regionals – Women’s Results (Day 4)
100m Hurdles Quarterfinal:
- Asjah Atkinson – 13.28 seconds
- Saqqara Ruffin – 13.35 seconds (wind-legal PR, 6th in Cal History)
Triple Jump:
- Myla Canty – 13.03m (wind-aided)
- Discus:
- Caisa-Marie Lindfors – 59.03m (Qualified)
- Lucija Leko – NM (No Mark)
Full List of NCAA Outdoor Championships – California Qualifiers
- Men’s 400m: Johnny Goode (PR 45.02, ACC Bronze Medalist, School Record-holder)
- Men’s 1500m: Garrett MacQuiddy (PR 3:38.50, ACC Silver Medalist, School Record-holder)
- Men’s Discus: Mykolas Alekna (PR 75.56m, ACC Champion, World Record-holder)
- Women’s Shot Put: Lucija Leko (PR 17.10m, ACC Silver Medalist, School Record-holder)
- Women’s Discus: Caisa-Marie Lindfors (PR 62.48m, ACC Silver Medalist, School Record-holder)
- Women’s Hammer:
- Valentina Savva (PR 69.20m, ACC Silver Medalist, No. 3 in Cal History)
- Giavonna Meeks (PR 67.86m, ACC Champion, No. 4 in Cal History)
- Audrey Jacobs (PR 65.22m, Second-Team All-ACC, No. 6 in Cal History)
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Bears?
The road to Eugene, Oregon is set! Cal’s eight qualifiers are gearing up for the NCAA Outdoor Championships scheduled from June 11-14. Fans and followers alike are eager to witness these athletes compete against the best in the nation.
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Caisa-Marie Lindfors‘s journey reflects the spirit of determination and excellence that embodies the essence of NCAA athletics. As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on her when she competes in Eugene. The Golden Bears are ready to showcase their talents on a national stage!
