Day 2 of the Big Sky Outdoor Track & Field Championships saw Idaho State's multi-event athletes finish strong as the decathlon and heptathlon concluded at Hornet Stadium. Led by a historic win from freshman
Tom Stoelken, the Bengals combined for 24 points across both multis, vaulting the men's and women's squads into top-tier positions heading into Day 3.
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Stoelken Crowned Big Sky Decathlon Champion
Tom Stoelken – 6770 points (PR) | 1st Place | Big Sky Champion
True freshman
Tom Stoelken delivered a gutsy, consistent performance across ten events to become the first ISU true freshman ever to win the decathlon, the first Bengal to claim the title since 2015, and the 10th in school history. He tallied a personal best of 6770 points, anchored by wins in the 110m hurdles and javelin, and a strong showing in the pole vault (4.20m PR).
"Tom came in knowing he was top of the conference among those with marks, but he knew it would be a battle," said Head Coach
Hillary Merkley.
"The multi is long and physically and mentally challenging… but Tom took care of business time and time again from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. He fought to the bitter end of that race to pull out the win."
- 110m Hurdles: 15.12 (1st)
- Discus: 42.64m (2nd)
- Pole Vault: 4.20m (PR, 2nd)
- Javelin Throw: 50.07m (1st)
- 1500m: 5:10.57 (PR, 10th)
- Total: 6770 points (PR, 1st place overall)
- Team Points: 10
Jones Stays Tough, Claims 8th in Decathlon
Adam Jones – 5899 points | 8th Place
Senior
Adam Jones displayed mental toughness throughout the two-day event, rebounding from early miscues to post a top-three discus throw and finish with a PR in the 1500m (4:58.49). His efforts secured one point for the Bengals.
"Adam is a talented decathlete… he made a couple mistakes that cost him, but he doesn't sulk," said Merkley.
"He takes what's in his control and gets going. He could've been out of it, but he stayed in and took 8th. I know he'll be a threat next year."
- 110m Hurdles: 17.23 (12th)
- Discus: 41.51m (3rd)
- Javelin Throw: 49.91m (2nd)
- 1500m: 4:58.49 (PR, 5th)
- Total: 5899 points (8th place overall)
- Team Points: 1
Dimick Earns All-Conference, Enters ISU Record Books
Kylee Dimick – 5181 points (PR) | 2nd Place
Senior
Kylee Dimick delivered one of the most emotionally resonant performances of the day. Her career-best 5181 points not only earned her All-Conference honors, but also placed her 8th all-time in ISU history. With podium finishes in the high jump and javelin, and a composed effort in the 800m, Dimick's resilience shined.
"Kylee has had a great career and carried a heavy load of pressure—most of it from herself," Merkley shared.
"She isn't afraid of a challenge… that finish was more impressive than many will know given the difficulty she manages. It was great to see her do it while having some fun along the way. I'm proud of her."
- Long Jump: 5.25m (4th)
- Javelin Throw: 34.26m (2nd)
- 800m: 2:31.64 (8th)
- Total: 5181 points (PR, 2nd overall)
- Team Points: 8
Mederios and Alders Deliver Strong Finishes
Kaila Mederios – 4602 points (PR) | 5th Place
Junior
Kaila Mederios turned in a clutch second day, setting PRs in all three events and finishing 5th. Her 5.52m long jump earned her 2nd in the event and 4 crucial team points.
Gracee Alders – 4451 points (PR) | 8th Place
Freshman
Gracee Alders snuck into scoring position in her championship debut with a personal-best effort. Her strong 800m finish (2:26.28) pushed her to 8th overall and gave the Bengals one more point.
"Kaila finished higher than she came in, and freshman Gracee Alders snuck in to score as well," Merkley said.
"All the ladies gave a good, solid effort and left it out there."
Team Standings After Day 2
- ISU Men: 11 total points – 2nd place overall
- ISU Women: 13 total points – Tied for 1st overall
What's Next
The Big Sky Outdoor Championships continue Friday, May 16, with prelims and additional field events beginning at 1:00 PM. With momentum building, Idaho State looks poised to capitalize on strong early performances.
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