Long Beach State graduate student Rori Denness-Lamont has been honored as The Big West Women's Field Athlete of the Week for her record-breaking javelin throw at the Beach Opener. The throw of 53.89 meters not only won the event but also set a new program record. This performance marks her strong return after missing the 2025 season due to injury.
Long Beach State University Athletics announced on March 10, 2026, that graduate student Rori Denness-Lamont received The Big West Women's Field Athlete of the Week award. The recognition came after her performance in the women's javelin at the Beach Opener, the team's first outdoor meet of the 2026 season.
Denness-Lamont, from White Rock, British Columbia, threw 53.89 meters (176 feet, 9 inches) to claim victory. This distance surpassed the previous Long Beach State program record of 52.63 meters (174 feet, 8 inches), which she had set earlier. Her mark now leads the Big West Conference, the NCAA West Region, and the national rankings.
The Beach Opener took place over two days at Jack Rose Track in Long Beach, California, where Long Beach State hosted regional teams. Denness-Lamont's achievement highlights her recovery from an injury that sidelined her throughout the 2025 season, signaling a promising start for the Beach track and field program.
Assistant Director of Athletic Communications Cianna Smith-Andrews noted the significance of the performance in setting a strong tone for the season. This honor underscores Denness-Lamont's dominance in the field events early in the outdoor campaign.
