KIRKLAND, Wash. – Northwest University track and field delivered a strong performance at the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) Track and Field Championships this weekend in La Grande, Oregon, hosted by Eastern Oregon University. The Eagles earned conference titles, personal bests, national rankings, and podium finishes throughout the championship meet.
Leading the way for Northwest was Rachel Elliott, who captured the CCC title in the women's 800-meter run with a personal best time of 2:12.93. The performance also moved Elliott up to No. 23 in the NAIA national rankings for the event. Elliott added another strong finish in the women's 1500-meter run, placing fourth against a competitive conference field.
On the men's side, Josiah Jaquith claimed a conference championship in the men's 3000-meter steeplechase, crossing the line in 9:28.13 to secure the title for the Eagles.
Northwest also found success in the relay events. The men's 4x800-meter relay team of Sam Knight, Levi Nichols, Jarron Ransford, and Josiah Jaquith placed second overall with a time of 7:57.80, earning another podium finish for the program.
Head coach Mark Mandi reflected on the weekend's performances and the resilience shown throughout the championships.
"We had a very memorable conference championship and I can't be more proud of the team and how they responded to the ups and downs of the weekend," said Mandi. "I believe that God uses opportunities like these to reveal the character he's shaping in us and that was true for this meet. Josiah and Rachel each winning a conference title was amazing and something we'll remember for a long time. Josiah did it shortly after racing the 4x800m and he showed a ton of grit as he battled against a field of competitors that included three other national qualifiers. Rachel won the 800m in dramatic fashion, coming back from third place with 200 meters to go and fighting down the homestretch with some of the best in the country."
The CCC Championships also marked the final conference meet for several Northwest seniors, including Brennan Koontz, Karina Foree, Jenisha Green, Kai Ushikubo, Levi Nichols, and Jarron Ransford. Throughout their time at Northwest, the group has played an important role in the continued growth of the Eagles program through leadership, dedication, and strong performances across multiple events.
"We got a chance to see all of our graduating seniors end their NU careers at the meet," Mandi added. "We are so thankful for all that Jarron, Brennan, Jenisha, and Karina have meant to the program."
Elliott and Jaquith will now prepare for the NAIA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, set for May 20-22 in Marion, Indiana, following a week off from competition.
All final results and live results links will be available through Northwest University Athletics.
