Mateski wins javelin at Mt. SAC Invitational

Aaron Mateski took first in the javelin on Saturday at the prestigious Mt. San Antonio Invitational men's track and field meet in Walnut.

The sophomore from North Bend, Oregon, threw a lifetime-best 59.54 meters (195 feet, 4 inches) to win by 14 inches over Tyler Edwards of Saddleback. It was the No. 2 javelin mark in SBCC history.

Bas van Leersum took second in the 400 hurdles in 53.85, the sixth-fastest time in school history. Van Leersum, who broke his own school record with a 53.21 earlier this year, owns four of the top six 400 hurdle times at SBCC.

Alex Heuchert took fourth in the 1500 with a PR of 3:56.97, the No. 6 all-time mark. The Vaqueros were fifth in the 4 x 100 relay with Ryan Hoffman, Van Leersum, Simon Bailey and Tyler Higby clocking 42.62, the ninth-best mark in school history.

Adam Grimmitt was fourth in the 3000 steeplechase in a PR of 9:57.44 that was eighth-best in school history.

Marvin Magg placed third in the javelin (54.48m) and seventh in the shot put (14.11m; No. 7 all time). Luke McAllister was seventh in the high jump at 6-5½.

"Aaron had a great series today and it was awesome for him to get the win on this big stage," said coach Scott Fickerson. "This should give him some great confidence going into the championship portion of the season.

"It was great to see some of our top men racing tough with the best the state has to offer. I'm really proud of Bas, Alex, and Adam for coming away with top finishes."

The Vaqueros will compete in the WSC Prelims on Friday at Ventura, then host the WSC Championships on Friday, April 24 at La Playa Stadium.