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DES MOINES, Iowa (June 13, 2008) -- Anders, the patriarch of the Arrhenius family, became an All-American in the shot put for BYU in 1975. Niklas, the second of three Arrhenius boys, was a three-time All-American for the Cougars in the discus. And with a fourth-place finish today in the discus at the 2008 NCAA National Championships, the youngest son of Anders and Kristine Arrhenius, Leif, became the latest family member to earn All-America honors.
"I guess it's just a matter of keeping the legacy going," the youngest Arrhenius said following the competition.
The sophomore from Orem, Utah, jumped out to an early lead in the competition on Friday, throwing 57.27 meters (187' 11") with his second of three throws in the qualifying round. Arrhenius held the lead until Clendon Henderson of Liberty threw 58.70 meters (192' 07") with his final attempt in the qualifying round.
Arrhenius slipped to third after Yemi Ayeni of Virgina threw 59.50 meters (195' 02") in the first round of the finals to take the lead. The very next competitor, Rashaud Scott of Kentucky, ranked seventh heading in to the finals, registered what would become the winning throw with a mark of 60.87 meters (199' 08"), forcing Arrhenius to fourth place.
With three more throws in the finals, Arrhenius was unable to improve on his qualifying throw to finish fourth overall.
"I felt pretty good heading in to the finals," Arrhenius said. "I could have thrown farther for sure, but I just didn't finish it. I'm pleased, but I feel like I left some in the tank."
Only a sophomore, and knowing he may have left a little in reserve, Arrhenius is already looking forward to the next two years.
"There's no question. I plan to do better next year," he said.
BYU's Angela Wagner will compete later this evening in the women's 3,000-meter steeplechase. The event is scheduled to begin at 7:25 p.m. this evening.
