Iowa's Johnson wins NCAA weight throw title

Junior Ryan Johnson sets meet and facility records with 25.64-meter throw

Mar. 14, 2026 at 7:34am

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University of Iowa track and field junior Ryan Johnson won the program's first-ever weight throw NCAA title with a 25.64-meter mark on Friday at the Randal Tyson Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Johnson's throw set meet and facility records, surpassing the previous record of 25.08 meters set in 2025.

Why it matters

This is Iowa's first-ever men's NCAA title in a throwing event and third indoor national title in program history. The victory highlights the strength of the Hawkeyes' track and field program and Johnson's individual excellence.

The details

After being passed in the fifth round, Johnson launched a 25.64-meter throw to regain the lead and secure the title. His mark was two centimeters off his personal best. The Springboro, Ohio, native is now a two-time first-team All-American after placing third a season ago.

  • On Friday, March 14, 2026, Johnson won the NCAA weight throw title at the Randal Tyson Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

The players

Ryan Johnson

A junior on the University of Iowa track and field team who won the NCAA weight throw title with a 25.64-meter mark, setting meet and facility records.

Joey Woody

The Director of Track and Field at the University of Iowa, who expressed pride in Johnson's performance and the team's overall success on the first day of the NCAA Championships.

Ray Robinson

The coach who worked with Johnson to help him achieve the NCAA title and championship record.

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What they’re saying

“Ryan had a great first throw to move into the lead and, even though he struggled in the next few rounds, he was still leading into the fifth round. He was challenged and moved to second place before stepping into the ring to launch a bomb for the meet record and NCAA title.”

— Joey Woody, Director of Track and Field, University of Iowa

“I am proud of Ryan and Coach Ray Robinson for their amazing season, going undefeated and bringing home the NCAA title with a championship record.”

— Joey Woody, Director of Track and Field, University of Iowa

What’s next

The Iowa men's team is currently in fifth place with 10 points after the first day of competition. On Saturday, Darwin Jimenez and Kalen Walker will compete in the finals of the 60 meters at 4:40 p.m. (CT), and the Iowa women's 4x400 meter relay will also compete.

The takeaway

Johnson's NCAA title victory showcases the strength and depth of the University of Iowa's track and field program, which has now won its first-ever men's throwing event championship and third indoor national title overall. The Hawkeyes' success in both track and field events highlights their ability to develop well-rounded student-athletes who can compete at the highest levels of collegiate competition.