ALLENDALE, Mich. - University of North Georgia pole vaulter Journey Gurley became the school's second National Champion Thursday when she won the pole vault at the 2021 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track & Field Championships. Abigail Kirkland also qualified for the 400 meter final to take place Saturday.

Gurley started out the event by clearing 3.80 meters on her first attempt, but committed her first strike at 3.95 meters before clearing on her second attempt. After a first clearance at 4.05 meters, Gurley needed all three attempts to clear 4.15 meters.

After vaulting over 4.25 meters on her first attempt, Gurley sat aside and watched the final two competitors strike out at the height to clinch the national championship.

Kirkland finished in fifth place in her heat of the 400 meter race, clocking a time of 55.88. She finished with the ninth fastest time, clinching her a spot in the final race on Saturday evening.

Tomorrow, Bree Hammond will compete in the 3000 meter steeplechase final with the starting gun firing at 6:20 p.m. EDT.