Rice University Athletics
Harbach Claims USATF U20 Javelin Title
6/22/2026 9:55:00 AM | Women's Track & Field
EUGENE – A week after Rice women's track and field saw a national champion in the javelin from senior Mckyla Van der Westhuizen, freshman Emily Harbach won the javelin at the USATF U20 national meet in Eugene, Oregon.
Harbach will now represent Team USA at the U20 World Championships in August, which are also in Eugene.
Harbach used a throw of 52.68m to win the event, besting Sophia Mazzoni of Auburn's throw of 52.40m.
Post Meet Reaction - Head Coach Jim Bevan
"What a tremendous eight-day span for Rice women's track and field in the javelin. We had our first national champion in 24 years last week by Mckyla, and now have a U20 national champion in the same event by Emily. She now has the tremendous honor of competing for Team USA at the World Championships back here in Eugene. I am so proud of Emily and all she has and continues to accomplish in her freshman season. I can't wait to continue watching her grow over the next three years. Our javelin group will continue to be in great hands. Also, congratulations to Coach Brek too, a pair of champions in a week's time. The hard work continues to pay off, and I am happy he's getting much-deserved recognition."
RESULTS
Javelin
1. Emily Harbach – 52.68m (172-10)
Harbach will now represent Team USA at the U20 World Championships in August, which are also in Eugene.
Harbach used a throw of 52.68m to win the event, besting Sophia Mazzoni of Auburn's throw of 52.40m.
"What a tremendous eight-day span for Rice women's track and field in the javelin. We had our first national champion in 24 years last week by Mckyla, and now have a U20 national champion in the same event by Emily. She now has the tremendous honor of competing for Team USA at the World Championships back here in Eugene. I am so proud of Emily and all she has and continues to accomplish in her freshman season. I can't wait to continue watching her grow over the next three years. Our javelin group will continue to be in great hands. Also, congratulations to Coach Brek too, a pair of champions in a week's time. The hard work continues to pay off, and I am happy he's getting much-deserved recognition."
Javelin
1. Emily Harbach – 52.68m (172-10)
Players Mentioned
Throws
/ Women's Track & Field
Javelin
/ Women's Track & FieldWednesday, March 09
Saturday, December 04
Thursday, December 02