AU senior DJ Smith 6th in men’s high jump at NCAA Championships - Western Mass News - WGGB/WSHM

Auburn senior high jumper DJ Smith finished sixth in the men's high jump at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships Friday at Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore. The Southeastern Conference runner up this season, Smith concluded his career with his first outdoor All-America honors after clearing a season-best height of 7-2½ (2.20m).

"DJ's effort was huge for us. I'm proud of the way he performed to concluded his career with his first outdoor All-American honors," Auburn head coach Ralph Spry said. "He did a great job and came into his own at SEC and NCAA Prelims and was one bar away from being top three."

Smith successfully cleared his first two marks of 6-8¼ and 6-10¾, before clearing 7-0 ½ and 7-2 ½ on his third and final attempts at each height.

"I'm thankful I was able to achieve one of my goals to be an All-American," Smith said. "It feels good. I'm blessed. I am so thankful for my coaches, my mom and dad, God and the entire support staff that helped me get here."

The Atlanta, Ga., native bowed out of the event when he could not clear his three attempts at a personal-best mark of 7-4½.  Arizona State junior Bryan McBride won the event after clearing 7-5¾. 

INFORMATION SOURCE: AU Athletics