ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Northwest University track and field closed out an impressive season at the 2026 NAIA Outdoor Track and Field National Championships, held May 20-22, at Karl Straus Track in Asheville. Competing against the nation's top athletes, the Eagles were represented by Josiah Jaquith in the men's 3000m steeplechase and Rachel Elliott in the women's 800m.
Jaquith delivered another standout performance on the national stage, placing third in the nation in the men's 3000m steeplechase with a time of 9:07.66. The finish earned him All-American honors for the third time in his career and capped off another historic season for the Eagles' distance standout.
Head Coach Mark Mandi praised Jaquith's effort following the race. "He finished 3rd and earned his 3rd All-American honors of his career. Praise God! Coach Corban did a great job of preparing him for the race. [It was a] tough, competitive field, and he continues to show big improvements each time he races at these championships."
On the women's side, Elliott continued her record-breaking season in the 800m. Elliott placed ninth in the nation with a time of 2:10.92, narrowly missing All-American status while setting a new Northwest University school record in the event. Her performance also solidified her place among the NAIA's best, finishing the season ranked No. 14 nationally in the women's 800m.
Mandi also reflected on Elliott's breakthrough season and national performance."Rachel's race at nationals was a fantastic finish to a historic season. She ran with toughness, poise, and joy in the Lord that made a big impression on those around her. When she broke the 6k school record during the cross country season, it seemed to come out of nowhere, but now we see that it was a foreshadow of things to come. A big shoutout to Coach Corban for preparing Rachel to have such a big year."
The national championship meet marked a strong finish for Northwest University, highlighted by elite performances, school records, and another All-American honor on the national stage.
