Chambana Sun

The Illinois track and field teams concluded the Big Ten Outdoor Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. Viktor Morozov and Abria Smith emerged as champions, each claiming gold medals in their respective events.

Viktor Morozov won the men's triple jump title under unusual circumstances. Initially finishing second with a jump of 15.63 meters, he was later declared the winner after Jaren Holmes from USC was disqualified for illegal spikes. This victory marks Morozov's first Big Ten title and is a significant achievement for the Illinois program, which last saw an outdoor triple jump champion 34 years ago.

Morozov shared his experience: "I didn't do my job as well as I wanted to, but I fought till the end—and now I'm a champion." He also expressed anticipation for future competitions: "I will come back hungrier, with more excitement and be more prepared."

Abria Smith secured her victory in the women's shot put from her first throw, reaching 17.95 meters. She is the first Illini woman to win this event since Aja Evans in 2009. Reflecting on her performance, Smith said: "First throw was 17.95, so pretty strong start," adding that winning meant a lot to her as she concludes her NCAA career.

In other events, Rose Yeboah earned a silver medal in the high jump by clearing 1.84 meters. The women's team finished fifth overall with 71 points while the men's team placed eighth with 37 points.

Both teams will take a brief break before competing at the NCAA West Preliminaries scheduled for May 28-31 in College Station, Texas.