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Veronica Fraley Wins NCAA Discus Title for Vanderbilt
June 8, 2024 – Graduate student Veronica Fraley cemented her place in Vanderbilt athletics history by launching a winning throw of 63.66 meters in the discus final at the NCAA Outdoor Championships.
Fraley’s clutch performance on the last day of competition at Hayward Field secured Vanderbilt’s third-ever individual NCAA championship, joining Ryan Tolbert (track and field, 1997) and Gordon Sargent (men’s golf, 2022) on the exclusive list.
Fraley’s Winning Throw
Fraley’s winning throw came on her fifth attempt of the final. She had previously thrown 62.11 meters on her first attempt, but her fifth throw was the one that would ultimately secure the title.
Fraley’s throw was the second-best in the NCAA this season, behind only Tara Davis of Texas A&M. It is also the second-best throw in Vanderbilt history, behind only Sarah Stevens’ school record of 64.41 meters.
Fraley’s History-Making Achievement
Fraley’s NCAA discus title is the first for Vanderbilt since Stevens won the event in 2017. It is also the first individual NCAA championship for Vanderbilt since Sargent won the men’s golf title in 2022.
Fraley’s victory is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She is a talented athlete who has put in the time and effort to become one of the best discus throwers in the country.
Vanderbilt’s Success in Track and Field
Vanderbilt has a long and successful history in track and field. The Commodores have won 11 NCAA team championships, including five in women’s track and field.
Vanderbilt has also produced a number of individual NCAA champions, including Tolbert, Sargent, and Fraley. The Commodores are known for their strong distance running program, but they have also had success in other events, such as the discus.
Looking Ahead
Fraley’s NCAA discus title is a great accomplishment for her and for Vanderbilt. It is a reminder of the Commodores’ rich tradition in track and field. Fraley is a talented athlete who has a bright future ahead of her. She is a role model for young athletes and an inspiration to everyone who knows her.
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