Northwest University’s Luke Fischer (Kalispell, Mont.) broke his own NU record with a throw of 219 feet and 6 inches in the javelin to win the NAIA championship recently at the 2013 NAIA national outdoor track and field meet.

With the win, Fischer also earns NAIA All-American status for the second consecutive year. Fischer placed second in the national meet in 2012.

“I was a little worried coming into [the event] because there had been a crosswind on the field prior to the event,” said Fischer, “but it switched to a headwind … which made the conditions much better for the javelin. I give thanks to God for giving me the strength to win the event.”

To cap off the competition, senior Matt Porter finished second in his heat to qualify for the finals in the 3,000-meter steeplechase with a time of 9:33.88. Porter came into the heat ranked No. 14 in his group, but surprised all with his 2nd place finish to make the final.

He finished fourth overall out of 22 competitors and came into the NAIA meet ranked No. 21.

“I felt good … because the conditions were a lot like home,” said Porter. “It was cool and windy and made the race comfortable. It was a tough heat, but I just hung in there, held back a little and tried to finish as strong as I could. I give all the glory to God.”

Coach Mark Mandi said, “It was an awesome day for Northwest University track and field. With Matt qualifying for the final and running a great race and Luke winning the national championship, it’s a just reward for all they have battled though this season with their injuries. They are two of the nicest people who turn into two of the fiercest competitors when they compete and I am very proud of them. Luke’s title is the first men’s national championship for the school. A great day for the Eagles!”

Al Kawashima, who is the sports information director and game management at Northwest University, contributed this report.