AZUSA, Calif. — The annual Bryan Clay Invitational proved once again to be the premier destination for the nation's top multi-event athletes. Hosting the elite field at home, Azusa Pacific saw two of its brightest stars, Emma Hein and Mark Burdin, deliver standout performances that have propelled them into the top tier of the NCAA national rankings.

Hein Makes Her Mark in the Heptathlon

Emma Hein showcased maturity beyond her years throughout the two-day heptathlon. Across seven grueling events, Hein displayed remarkable consistency, highlighted by a dominant victory in the 800m (2:21.37) and a strong showing in the shot put (12.68m).

Her total score of 5,178 points earned her a hard-fought second-place finish in a competitive Group D field. More importantly, this performance has vaulted Hein to 8th in the nation among Division II heptathletes. Her ability to navigate the technical hurdles and explosive field events cements her status as a rising star in the program.

Burdin Battles in Decathlon Powerhouse

In the ultra-competitive Decathlon Group A, junior Mark Burdin proved he belongs among the nation's best. Burdin was a model of reliability in the throwing and jumping pits, recording a top-tier mark of 14.30m in the shot put and clearing 4.40m in the pole vault.

Burdin finished the competition with 7,122 points, a gritty performance that rewarded him with a top-10 finish against a field of seasoned national competitors. Following this result, Burdin now sits 4th nationally in Division II, positioning himself perfectly as the championship portion of the outdoor season approaches.

BY THE NUMBERS: THE ROAD TO NATIONAL RANKINGS

UP NEXT: With these national rankings locked in, the Cougars shift their focus toward the 2026 rendition of the Bryan Clay Invitational, looking to carry the momentum from the multis portion of this two week track and field spectacle.