DES MOINES, Iowa – The Ottawa University track & field team never had a gold medalist at the prestigious Drake University Relays in the program's history. That all changed this weekend at the 113^th edition of the event.  Jacob Ludwick and Laurel Barber were champions in the javelin throw, while Hadyn Bieling finished runner up in the men's high jump.

Laurel Barber, a Junior from Ottawa University, won the Women's Javelin Throw at the University/College division with a mark of 48.81m (160' 2"). Barber's throw was a personal record by several meters and she now holds the top mark in the NAIA by almost three meters.

Barber had a strong performance throughout the event, with her second attempt of 48.81m being the winning throw. She had previously thrown 39.69m and 45.19m on her first and third attempts respectively. Her fourth and fifth attempts resulted in marks of 42.87m and 43.95m, before passing on her sixth and final attempt.

Jacob Ludwick placed first in the Men's Javelin Throw at the University/College division with a mark of 59.97m (196' 9"). He had consistent throws throughout the competition, with his lowest mark being 54.16m and his highest being 59.97m. Ludwick currently ranks eighth in the NAIA with a 61.94 personal best this season.

Hadyn Bieling, a sophomore from Ottawa, performed very well in the men's high jump at University/College division. He cleared heights of 1.95m, 2.00m, and 2.05m on his first attempts, before needing two attempts to clear 2.10m. The performance was a new personal record and earned runner up in his event. Bieling now ranks second in the NAIA with the new PR.

From Coach Paternostro
"The 113^th Drake Relays was an incredible event for the Braves! All three athletes that competed are having an amazing year, and are ranked in the top-10 of national NAIA rankings in their respective events. Laurel is doing amazing things, with a huge personal record throw this weekend. Can't wait to see what she can do at NAIA Nationals. Hayden was going toe-to-toe with the defending high jump national champion. He is on a war path to become an All-American, and has real potential for national championship. Jacob has been solid all season, improving this season on already impressive personal records. There has been a lot of good competition in the men's javelin this year, but we know Jacob has potential to pull off a big time throw that would shoot him up the national rankings. "