Chambana Sun

The Illinois women's track and field team made significant strides during the second day of the NCAA Outdoor Championships at Hayward Field, Oregon. Abria Smith secured a silver medal in the shot put, marking her as a national runner-up. Additionally, Sophia Beckmon, Tacoria Humphrey, and Mia Morello earned All-America honors in their respective events.

Smith's throw of 18.85 meters (61-10 1/4) set a new record for the program as she became its highest-ever finisher in the shot put at these championships. She surpassed Debbie Smith's previous best from 1989 when she won bronze. This achievement also makes her the fourth individual to become an All-American in this event for Illinois.

Reflecting on her season, Smith concluded her time at Illinois as both a Big Ten Outdoor Champion and an All-American honoree twice over. Her outdoor mark of 18.92 meters (62-1) is particularly notable as it broke school records and was recorded as the 14th-furthest throw in NCAA outdoor history.

Tacoria Humphrey finished fourth in the long jump with a leap of 6.62 meters (21-8 3/4), earning her recognition as only the second long jump All-American from Illinois since Becky Kaiser in 1982. Humphrey's senior season saw her claiming victories at both Big Ten Indoor and Outdoor Championships with impressive performances that set new records.

Sophomore Sophia Beckmon joined Humphrey and Kaiser by achieving sixth place in the long jump with a distance of 6.49 meters (21-3 1/2). Her sophomore year culminated with two All-America honors alongside medals from Big Ten Championships.

Mia Morello achieved eighth place in pole vaulting by clearing 4.39 meters (14-4 3/4), making her one of only three individuals from Illinois to earn All-American status in this event.

As these athletes wrap up their performances, they prepare for further competitions tomorrow when events continue with heptathlon activities starting early afternoon followed by field events later that evening.