The Bucs track and field season has come to an end. They finished the season strong as the men finished third in the Southern Conference Indoor Championships. On the women’s side, they finished in fourth place. The Bucs individually had a good showing at the SoCon indoor championships with many individuals winning medals.
Ben Johnson (Nashville, Tennessee) broke a conference meet record in the weight throw which won him the conference championship. Johnson has had a big indoor season for the Bucs. He came into the season with expectations of improving on what he did last season.
“As a team, I think everyone did what they wanted to do,” said Johnson. “We had a lot of people like freshman Karon Delince (Phoenix, Alabama), who’s on the football team win three medals.”
Due to his strong SoCon performance, Johnson qualified for the NCAA track and field championships. He is the first male weight thrower to qualify for the NCAA national event.
Johnson placed 13th place with a throw of 20.70 meters. In the event, Johnson competed against 15 other athletes.
“I worked hard to for it, I never thought I would make it this far since I just started throwing last year,” said Johnson. “Overall I’m just privileged and honored.”
Johnson is only the second Buc to qualify for the NCAA championship in the last 30 years.
Coming into the NCAA nationals Johnson went in with confidence that he could perhaps win the event.
“I wanted to go and try to win but, also do my best,” said Johnson. “I wanted to win, but I wanted to throw 22 meters which would be a personal best for me.”
The Bucs outdoor season will begin March 15-17 at the 49ers classic.
“Next season I want to improve on my technique and form,” said Johnson.
