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Ralford Mullings, a junior discus thrower from Oklahoma’s track and field team, has been named a semifinalist for The Bowerman, one of the most prestigious awards in collegiate athletics.
The U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) revealed the semifinalist list on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
The Bowerman honors the top male and female collegiate track and field athletes each year. This recognition is determined by The Bowerman Advisory Board, who compile and rank a list of 10 athletes with the most exceptional seasons.
Historic First for Oklahoma Men’s Track Program
Mullings becomes the first male athlete from Oklahoma to reach this milestone. Before him, Tia Brooks, a four-time NCAA champion in women’s throwing events, was Oklahoma’s only semifinalist, earning honors in 2012 and 2013.
Record-Breaking Season for Mullings
Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, Mullings secured his place in history by winning the NCAA Outdoor Championships discus title on June 14.
His record-breaking throw of 69.31 meters (227’5″) not only shattered a 33-year-old meet record but also beat out world record holder Mykolas Alekna of California. This throw places Mullings second on the all-time collegiate performance list and ninth in NCAA history.
He is also Oklahoma’s first-ever national champion in the discus throw and the school’s first outdoor individual title winner since 2009.
National Recognition and SEC Dominance
In recognition of his dominant season, Mullings was recently named the NCAA Division I National Field Athlete of the Year by the USTFCCCA, becoming the first discus thrower since 2010 to receive this honor. He also earned the SEC Outdoor Championship title in discus and broke three facility records at Baylor, Kentucky, and Texas. Mullings holds two of the top-10 farthest throws in NCAA history.
What’s Next for The Bowerman Selection
The Bowerman Advisory Board will convene on July 8 to select three finalists, with winners announced during the USTFCCCA Convention in Grapevine, Texas, on December 18, 2025.
Ralford Mullings’ groundbreaking performances have earned him national acclaim and cemented his legacy in Oklahoma athletics. As a record-setter, SEC champion, and now The Bowerman semifinalist, Mullings is redefining excellence in collegiate field events and raising the bar for future athletes.