Austin, Texas ? Kansas University freshman Mason Finley placed second in the shot put at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field West preliminary Thursday.

Finley, who threw 63-feet, 2-inches, has qualified for the NCAA meet, June 9-12, in Eugene, Ore. His best throw of the day was the last of his six attempts.

“I had a good progression today,” Finley said. “It was an exciting competition. I know what I need to improve on before I head to Oregon, so now I just need to go back to work.”

He will throw his favorite event, the discus, Saturday.

KU senior Lauren Bonds advanced to Saturday’s final in the 1,500 meters. She won the fourth heat in 4:23.57. Freshman Kyle Clemons placed second in his heat in the 400 in 46.29 and advanced to the quarterfinals. Freshman Taylor Washington advanced in the women’s 400 by placing second in her heat in 53.5.