PUEBLO, Colo. – On the biggest stage of the season, freshman pole vaulter Michael Payan delivered a performance for the history books. Representing Cal Poly Humboldt at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track & Field Championships on Thursday, Payan not only broke his own school record—twice—but soared to a fifth-place national finish with a clearance of 5.32 meters (17 feet, 5.5 inches).

Ranked No. 7 entering the meet, the first-year standout rose to the occasion in front of those in attendance at the CSU Pueblo ThunderBowl. Payan's personal-best mark secured him a spot on the podium and a First Team All-American honor—an accolade earned by finishing among the top eight in the country.

Payan's ascent through the collegiate ranks has been nothing short of remarkable. He first broke the school record earlier this spring and now leaves his freshman campaign not only as the best pole vaulter in Cal Poly Humboldt history, but as one of the best in the nation.

With the fifth-place finish, Payan becomes Humboldt's first freshman outdoor track & field First Team All-American since 2017. 

Payan's historic performance caps off the year for Cal Poly Humboldt Track & Field and sets the bar high for what promises to be an exciting career ahead.

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