March 27, 2026
WAYNE, Neb. – Two Dakota State women's throwers produced national qualifying marks on the first day of the NCAA Division II Wayne State (Neb.) Wildcat Open at WSC Memorial Stadium Friday afternoon. The Trojans also claimed an event title.
Daynica Witzel won the javelin throw title after hitting her personal best 41.24 meters (135 feet, 3 inches) for the Trojans. Her mark is second best in the DSU women's outdoor track & field school record book and earned the NAIA 'B' provisional qualifying mark.
Bridget Bartling added a fifth-place finish in the javelin after throwing 34.19 meters (112 feet, 2 inches).
After hitting the national qualifying mark in the shot put in the season opener at Central Methodist (Mo.) last Saturday,
Oliviyah Thornton added another national qualifying event. She threw her season best 51.97 meters (170 feet, 6 inches) to hit the NAIA 'B' provisional qualifying mark, finishing fifth overall in the event. Her mark is the third best in the DSU school record book.
Bella Maxwell placed tenth after throwing 47.06 meters (154 feet, 4 inches) for the Trojans.
Alivia Bickett posted her personal record 43.91 meters (144 feet), followed by
Kiana Mounga with 40.20 meters (131 feet, 10 inches) mark.
Emily Dvorak added 28.29 meters (92 feet, 9 inches).
Dakota State continues their action on the second day of the Wildcat Open Saturday with a full day of events, starting at 11 a.m.
