High Jump Prelims Results

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – University of Hawai'i high jumpers Amber Kaufman and Emily Sheppard advanced to the 2009 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships high jump finals by qualifying through the preliminary round Wednesday at the University of Arkansas' John McDonnell Field.

 

Kaufman and Sheppard were among a group of 15 athletes who cleared 5-9 ¾ (1.77m), which narrowed the field from 23 high jumpers.

 

Both Kaufman and Sheppard cleared their opening two heights of 5-7 (1.70m) and 5-8 ½ (1.74m) on their first attempts. At 5-9 ¾ (1.77m), Kaufman missed on her first attempt but cleared on her second attempt. Sheppard needed all three attempts before finally clearing the bar on her final jump.

 

Kaufman finished fifth and Sheppard tied for sixth at the 2008 NCAA Outdoor Championships. However, Kaufman is ranked second nationally this season and is the reining NCAA West Regional champion.

 

On Thursday, multi-event athlete Annett Wichmann will begin the first day of the heptathlon. She is looking to improve on her sixth place finish at last year's championships.

 

Live video streaming of the meet is available on ncaasports.com.