SOU's Martinez shatters own pole vault record to clinch spot at nationals

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Southern Oregon University's Katherine Martinez won the pole vault event at the Chico Wildcat Invitational, clearing 12 feet, 9 inches to break her own program record by 5 1/2 inches. The mark also met the NAIA 'A' standard, punching her ticket to the Outdoor National Championships for the second consecutive year. Five other Raiders also posted Cascade Conference Championship qualifying marks in various events.

Why it matters

Martinez's record-breaking performance cements her status as one of the top pole vaulters in the NAIA, and her return to the national championships will be a major storyline for the SOU track and field program. The team's overall strong showing at the Chico meet also demonstrates the depth and talent of the Raiders' roster as they gear up for the conference and national meets.

The details

Martinez's winning vault of 12 feet, 9 inches (3.89m) was 7 1/2 inches higher than SOU's previous program record, which she had set previously. The Crescent City, California native's mark also easily cleared the NAIA 'A' standard of 3.78 meters, securing her spot at the Outdoor National Championships. In addition to Martinez's heroics, five other SOU athletes qualified for the Cascade Conference Championships: Alyssa Johnson in the 1,500 meters, Trey Lucas in the 200 meters, Zak Weddell in the 110-meter hurdles, Gabby Morfin in the 100-meter hurdles, and Johanna Heil in the javelin.

• On Saturday, March 16, 2026, the Chico Wildcat Invitational was held in Chico, California.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Martinez will now prepare to compete at the NAIA Outdoor National Championships, where she will look to defend her spot and potentially improve upon her record-breaking performance.