Eleven athletes from the Harding women's track and field team will compete at the 2026 NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships, marking a new program record and eclipsing the previous high of seven qualifiers. Harding, which is currently ranked No. 11 nationally, will feature nine individual competitors and a 4x100-meter relay team at the championships taking place from May 21-23 in Emporia, Kansas. Key athletes include freshman Erika Konovalenko, ranked No. 3 in the Javelin, and others aiming for podium finishes.

By the Numbers
  • 11 athletes qualified for the championship, a new program record.
  • Erika Konovalenko holds the No. 3 mark in the Javelin at 51.84 meters.
  • The 4x100-meter relay team is ranked 12th in Division II with a time of 45.25 seconds.
State of Play
  • Harding aims to leverage its No. 11 national ranking to accumulate team points during the championships.
  • The competition features multiple events beginning with the multi-events and pole vault.
  • Top athletes from various event disciplines are poised to make significant impacts, such as Josie Parks in the 3,000-meter Steeplechase.
What's Next

The Lady Bisons will begin their competition on May 21, with expectations high for strong performances across various events, particularly from their top-ranked athletes. Additionally, the stakes are elevated as they seek to improve their national standing and achieve individual accolades.

Bottom Line

Harding's women's track and field team is entering a historic championship with a robust lineup, and their performance could redefine the program鈥檚 legacy. A focus on teamwork and individual excellence could lead to unprecedented success at the NCAA level.