Bryson Pickard Headed to NCAA Outdoor Championship

ST. LOUIS, Mo. - For the first time in school history, the Fontbonne University track and field team is sending an athlete to the NCAA Outdoor National Championship. Bryson Pickard will be competing in the 400-meter dash. 

The championship will take place in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at the Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium, from May 23-25.

The Prelims will be on Friday, May 24 at 5:15 p.m. EDT, then the Finals will be on Saturday, May 25 at 5:20 p.m. EDT

Live Stats can be found here.

He qualified at the North Central College Carius/Gregory Invitational with a time of 47.52. 

"Bryson has been such a pleasure to coach and watch grow in our program," stated Head Coach Justin Halley. "Qualifying for nationals is a huge testament to his work ethic and dedication to the process we have here at Fontbonne. Being the first track athlete to qualify for D3 outdoor nationals in program history, makes it that much more special."

"Our coaching staff knew he was a talented individual, but his drive as a competitor is what really sets him apart. He came from a great program at Union high school, where their athletes are known to be gritty and unwavering in their goals. I am extremely proud of Bryson and all his accomplishments he achieved in the classroom and on the track this year. His records, awards, and statistics have solidified him as one of the best to have competed in the purple and gold," added Halley. 

He broke a total of 11 school records including indoor and outdoor during his first year competing for the Griffins. 

Before qualifying for the NCAA Outdoor Championship, the old 400-meter dash school record was also held by Bryson. He ran a time of 48.47 at the SLIAC Outdoor Championship when he won the title.

"It has been an absolute pleasure watching Bryson develop not only on the track, but as a student and an individual. His work ethic is second to none and he continues to amaze us in every facet of what it means to be a student-athlete," said Associate Head Coach Emily Bay. "He is a great example of how hard work can present new opportunities and experiences. He has been a joy to have on the team this year and we cannot wait to see how he continues to grow over the next few years," she concluded. 

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