Sutherland Shatters Records, Secures Second NCAA 400m Hurdles Title
EUGENE, Ore. – University of Michigan’s Savannah Sutherland concluded her collegiate career in spectacular fashion, winning her second NCAA 400-meter hurdles title at the NCAA Outdoor Championships held at Hayward Field in Oregon. Her performance was not just a victory, but a rewriting of history, as she shattered four records in a single race.
Sutherland dominated the race from start to finish, clocking a personal best time of 52.46 seconds – a staggering 2.20 seconds ahead of second-place finisher Akala Garrett from Texas. This electrifying performance shattered the existing program record, the NCAA record, the NCAA Championship meet record, and the Canadian national record, solidifying her place in track and field history.
Only Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, with her 2018 record of 52.75 seconds, previously broke the 53-second barrier in NCAA history. Sutherland now joins this elite group, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest 400m hurdlers in collegiate history. Her victory capped off a remarkable three-year run of top-two finishes in the event, showcasing her consistent excellence and unwavering dedication.
The Borden, Saskatchewan native’s achievement contributed 10 points to the Wolverines’ overall score, placing them in a tie for 26th place in the team standings. While the team result might not reflect the individual brilliance of Sutherland’s performance, it underscores the depth and talent within the Michigan women’s track and field program.
Meanwhile, Clare McNamara showcased her resilience and determination in the heptathlon. Despite initially ranking 24th, McNamara steadily improved her position throughout the competition. A strong long jump performance of 5.29 meters propelled her to 21st place after the first event. Although she ultimately finished in 20th place with 4,980 points, her consistent performance throughout the demanding heptathlon demonstrated her strength and versatility.
Looking ahead, several members of the Michigan women’s track and field team will continue their competitive journey at international competitions, including senior-level and U20 national championships. Sutherland’s record-breaking performance serves as a powerful inspiration for her teammates, setting a high benchmark for future aspirations and achievements. The Wolverines’ future looks bright, fueled by the legacy of exceptional athletes like Sutherland.
