LA JOLLA – The UCLA track and field team sent a smaller group to the Triton Invitational this weekend, but the few that competed shined on the UC San Diego campus.

The timing couldn't have been better with the dual meet against rival USC and the postseason looming for All-American Dotun Ogundeji to have a big day. The San Diego native shined near his hometown as he launched two personal bests on the day. In the shot put, Ogundeji uncorked a massive throw of 66-3 (20.19m) to finish as the top collegiate competitor. His throw ranks seventh all-time at UCLA and is currently fifth in the country.

Ogundeji has been quietly having a solid season in the discus as he has pumped out a PR in consecutive weeks. On Saturday the redshirt-sophomore launched a best of 187-2 (57.04m) to win the open portion of the event. Also in the men's shot put, freshman Nate Esparza threw a near PR of 59-6.75 (18.15m).

In the women's shot put, sophomore Ashlie Blake uncorked a personal best of 54-10 (16.71m) to place as the second collegiate competitor. Senior Torie Owers was fourth at 52-11 (16.13m).

Freshman Marian Spannowsky was the top collegiate finisher in the javelin as he launched a best of 221-9 (67.59m).

Elleyse Garrett continued her strong 2017 as she won the women's pole vault with a clearance of 13-3.50 (4.05m). 

The Bruins will be back in action for the much-anticipated dual meet against USC on Sunday, April 30. The meet will be at the Loker Track Stadium on the campus of USC.