BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire women’s track and field team made a notable impact at the 2026 NCAA Division III Indoor Championships held at the Birmingham Cross Plex.
Kayla Behnke stood out, earning her eighth career podium finish and All-America honors in the weight throw on Friday. She achieved her best mark of the season with a throw of 19.42 meters, placing third overall. Although she missed her personal best by just a fraction, this was her highest placement in any NCAA Championship, showcasing her resilience and skill over her four years of competition.
On Saturday, the women’s 4×400 relay team, consisting of Kylee Grabarski, Mya Cinnamo, Britt Fitzgerald, and McKenzie Kruse, set a new school record with a time of 3:47.70. Their sixth-place finish earned them All-America honors for the third consecutive championship, marking a significant milestone for the team.
Additionally, Allyson Kakes etched her name in the record books during the qualifiers. She ran the 200-meter race in 24.54 seconds, breaking the previous school record held by Carly Fehler since 2015. Though Kakes did not advance to the finals, her performance highlighted the team’s impressive talent and potential.
These achievements not only reflect the individual and team efforts of the Blugolds but also their dedication to excellence. The data shows that participation in athletics boosts both mental and physical health among students. According to a 2020 survey by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), student-athletes reported higher satisfaction levels and better stress management.
As the season progresses, the Blugolds have shown they are a force to be reckoned with, and their journey can be followed on Blugolds.com and their social media channels.
