Joy Naukot Qualifies for NCAA Championships in the 5,000 Meters
March 05, 2026 01:13 PM | Track & Field
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – West Virginia University sophomore Joy Naukot has qualified for the 5,000 meters at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships, set for March 13-14 in Fayetteville, Ark.
Naukot secured her spot in the national meet following a standout indoor season that included breaking the WVU school record in the 5,000 meters. She also posted the second fastest time in program history in the 3,000 meters, positioning herself among the nation's top distance runners heading into the championship meet.
"This will be an excellent opportunity for Joy to compete at the NCAA finals," WVU coach Sean Cleary said. "We are looking at the very best women's 5k field ever assembled with regards to collegiate athletics.
After watching Joy break the school record in the 5,000 meters and run the number two time in the 3,000 meters, we feel that she has positioned herself well to take this opportunity with confidence."
The women's 5,000 meter final is scheduled for March 13 at 8:05 EST.
For more information on the Mountaineers, visit WVUsports.com and follow WVUXCTF on X, Facebook and Instagram.
Naukot secured her spot in the national meet following a standout indoor season that included breaking the WVU school record in the 5,000 meters. She also posted the second fastest time in program history in the 3,000 meters, positioning herself among the nation's top distance runners heading into the championship meet.
"This will be an excellent opportunity for Joy to compete at the NCAA finals," WVU coach Sean Cleary said. "We are looking at the very best women's 5k field ever assembled with regards to collegiate athletics.
After watching Joy break the school record in the 5,000 meters and run the number two time in the 3,000 meters, we feel that she has positioned herself well to take this opportunity with confidence."
The women's 5,000 meter final is scheduled for March 13 at 8:05 EST.
For more information on the Mountaineers, visit WVUsports.com and follow WVUXCTF on X, Facebook and Instagram.
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