Courtesy of the University of AR at Pine Bluff
Fayetteville, AR.- Caleb Snowden, an HBCU student-athlete from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), is a rising star in men’s NCAA track and field. His hard work and dedication have led him to the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Oregon, June 5-8, for the second consecutive year.
During the qualifying rounds, Caleb Snowden’s prowess was evident. He cleared all bars in his attempts and tied for the top spot with a leap of 2.20m (7-2 ½), securing his place in Eugene, Oregon. His current ranking as the top jumper in the NCAA and 10th in the US is a testament to his dominance in the sport.
“It felt good to qualify for the NCAA Outdoor Championships for the second time,” Snowden said. “After warming up and clearing the bar on my first attempt, I knew it was time to step up.”
Earlier in the season, he set a career-best school record with a leap of 7-5 at the 69th Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays. In the NCAA Indoor Championship, he cleared 2.24m (7-4 ¼) to secure second place and was honored with First Team All-America recognition.
Not only is Snowden a standout performer, but he is also a trailblazer. Hailing from Lehigh, Florida, he has become the first high jumper from a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) to claim the top spot in the NCAA Regionals for two consecutive seasons in the past decade. This is a monumental achievement, underscoring the impact of his success on the sport.
“Competing in the regionals, wearing UAPB across my chest in Arkansas, and seeing my parents, coaches, and friends in the stands made me want to finish strong and make them proud.”