By Ashley Birchmeier

Sophomore Emily Richards earned her first NCAA title on Saturday in impressive fashion as she won the 800-meter run on the final day of the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Walston-Hoover Stadium.

Richards won the event with a new stadium record time of 2:05.88, earning her first national title accolade and second All-American honor.

The sophomore dominated the race from the onset, as she used the first 300 meters to create separation from the nine-women field. Richards then ran alone across the finish line, beating the field by nearly four seconds. "I knew I had to take it from the gun and not let up," said Richards. "It's been a really long journey and feels great to finally reach my goal."

Richards qualified for the national meet in 2:05.54, running the third fastest time in Division III history. "Fantastic race, she ran really well and moved at 300 meters," ONU head coach Jason Maus said. "She has been on a mission since March and its nice to finally see her hard work be rewarded on a day like today."

Earlier this week senior Kristine Wagner, junior Allie Gast, and freshman Maddy Reed also competed in their respective events. Wagner competed in the heptathlon Thursday and Friday, posting a 16th place finish with 4,254 points. She entered the meet ranked 21st nationally.

Gast also competed on Friday in the 100-meter hurdles. She finished seventh in her heat and 20th overall in :15.18. The junior entered her first Outdoor Championships ranked 18th overall.

Reed competed in her first NCAA meet on Thursday as she finished 10th in the pole vault by clearing 12 feet 5.5 inches. The freshman entered the meet ranked 10th in the field.