Official NCAA Release

TACOMA, Wash. — The NCAA released qualifiers for the 2026 NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field Championships on Friday with Pacific Lutheran University's Madison Downey qualifying for the triple jump.

"I'm proud of both Maddie and Coach Pat Licari on earning the opportunity to compete at the national championships!," said Head Coach Trey Henderson.

Downey, the Northwest Conference in the triple jump, punches a ticket to the national meet after leaping a school record 39 feet, four and one half inch last Friday at the Oregon Twilight Meet in Eugene.

The Salem, Oregon native heads to the national meet with the 14th best jump in D3 this season.

"Maddie has had a great season so far and nationals is another opportunity for her to continue to grow as a jumper and competitor. 

She'll get great experience next week and we are excited to watch her compete and represent the program and PLU on the national stage!"

The 2026 Championships are being held in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Downey will compete on Saturday, May 23 at 2 p.m.