CEDAR CITY, UTAH -- Ajia Hughes is one of the most elite collegiate high jumpers in the country, and she will have another opportunity to prove that at the Toyota USATF Outdoor & Para National Championships in Eugene, Oregon.

Head Coach Eric Houle said

"Ajia is a phenomenal athlete who has done amazing things in her career at SUU. Earning the opportunity to compete at the USATF Outdoor National Championships is a well-deserved accolade. I am very proud of Ajia and all that she has accomplished so far."

Meet Information

When: July 31 - August 3

Where: Eugene, Oregon

Watch: NBC

Ajia will be competing in the high jump finals on day two of the competition at 4:05 p.m.

SUU Track & Field Assistant Coach Steve Champlin said this about Hughes

"NCAA Division I track and field is one of the most competitive track and field leagues in the world. Most of the pros who compete in the Diamond League and Grand Slam track and field events don't compete at the same caliber that NCAA Division I athletes are required to compete at day in and day out. The majority of the student-athletes who podium at the NCAA outdoor track and field championships go on to compete for their countries at world championships and Olympic championship events. For Ajia to finish in the Top 10 in the country and earn second team All-American honors is a prestigious honor worthy of elite recognition. This type of achievement comes from discipline and an unmatched ability to endure emotional, mental, and physical stress."

"Throughout the season, Ajia displayed a great deal of discipline and desire to learn the ins and outs of her craft as a jumper. Ajia took sprint and conditioning workouts very seriously, making it a point to be present both physically and mentally during training. Ajia carries a tremendous amount of pride for herself, her family, and her institution, and that showed in her competitive spirit this season. Ajia is a tremendous talent, and we are very fortunate to have her here at Southern Utah University. I am very excited to see how she competes at the USATF Outdoor Championships in August!"

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