The University of Idaho will have a pair of representatives on the national stage this week when javelin thrower Blake Sturgis and steeplechase competitor Constanze Paoli take the track at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Eugene.
Sturgis Ends Long Drought for Idaho Javelin
Sturgis, a Spokane native, secured his spot at nationals by finishing eighth at the NCAA West Regional in May, recording a throw of 72.12 meters (236 feet, 7 inches). His qualification carries historical weight — he is the first University of Idaho javelin thrower to reach the national championships in more than a decade.
The milestone caps a standout season for Sturgis. He was named Big Sky Athlete of the Week three separate times, finished second at the Big Sky Championship, and posted the second-longest javelin mark in Idaho program history back in April. He also set a facility record at Whitworth’s Pine Bowl earlier this season.
Sturgis is slated to compete in the first flight of the men’s javelin event, entering as the 12th thrower. The event is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. Wednesday, June 10, and will be available to watch on ESPN+.
Paoli Ranks Among Nation’s Best in Steeplechase
On the women’s side, Paoli punched her ticket to Eugene by winning her heat at the regional in Fayetteville with a time of 10:02.74, which ranked third fastest among all four qualifying heats. Her credentials heading into nationals are strong — she owns the 10th fastest steeplechase time in the country this season and set a Big Sky Conference record at the conference championship with a time of 9:50.89 in the 3,000-meter steeplechase.
Paoli becomes just the second Vandal to qualify for the national steeplechase competition in the last two years, continuing a tradition of distance running success at Idaho. Her final heat at the NCAA Championships is set for 5:24 p.m. Saturday, June 13, also airing on ESPN+.
For fans following the Vandals’ progress on the national circuit, Idaho’s athletics program has continued to build momentum across multiple sports, reflecting broader university life that makes Moscow a destination for competitive student-athletes. Moscow, Idaho has drawn national recognition as one of the country’s top college towns, and the University of Idaho’s athletic achievements are part of that identity.
What Comes Next
Both athletes will represent the Gem State at one of college track and field’s premier events. Sturgis opens competition Wednesday evening in Eugene, with Paoli following on Saturday in what will be among the final events of the championship weekend. Vandal fans can tune in to ESPN+ to follow both competitors as they look to make their mark on the national stage.
For students and community members interested in campus life and events surrounding the Vandals’ season, the University of Idaho is also hosting a free summer movie series on the lawn in Moscow through the coming weeks.