KU’s Finley sets record in shot-put

Sophomore thrower Mason Finley had a record-setting day as he scored 10 points in leading Kansas University’s track and field team to a 190-171 victory over Missouri on Friday at Anschutz Pavilion.

The Jayhawks beat the Tigers for the first time since the dual was revived three years ago.

Finley threw the shot-put 20.71 meters (67-11.50 feet), a KU school record. He broke Karl Salb’s previous mark of 67-05.50 feet in 1970.

Finley’s mark also set an Anschutz Pavilion record. The previous facility record was set by Scott Loftquist in 1985 (66-11.50 feet).

Finley’s 20.71-meter toss ranks as the top mark in the NCAA and the world in 2011. It serves as an ‘A’ Standard qualifying mark for the 2011 World Championships and the 2012 Olympic Games.

“One of my goals is to be in the record book,” Finley said. “However, I never thought it would come this early in my career. It is a great accomplishment and I am pumped to have it happen (Friday) at the dual meet with Mizzou. Not only did I reach a personal goal, but I also helped my team get a win over our rivals. It is a great feeling.”

Finley also had an exciting finish in the weight throw as he came from behind in the final round. Finley took the lead from Mizzou’s Chris Holly on his sixth and final throw as he recorded a winning mark of 18.51 meters (60-08.75 ft).

The Kansas track and field teams will play host to the Jayhawk Classic on Jan. 28 in Anschutz Pavilion.