MOSCOW, Idaho - The University of Idaho Track & Field/Cross Country program is excited to announce that Oregon sprinter Emelia Puerta has signed with the Vandals to continue her track and field career in Moscow.

Emelia's sophomore season saw her flash her abilities as a sprinter, qualifying for the Oregon 6A state championships for the first time individually in the 400 meters, where she finished in 11th place. Returning as a junior, Emelia proved to be the best sprinter in Clackamas history. In total, she holds the 100m, 200m, 400m, 4x100, 4x200, and 4x400 meter relays, school records.

At the Oregon 6A state championships in 2022, Emelia shined across the sprint events, qualifying in four events. She made the finals in the 100 meters where she set a personal best at 12.31, finishing 8th. Emelia anchored the 4x100 meter relay to a 5th place finish charging hard after receiving the baton in 8th position and passing three teams on the final stretch. She also anchored the 4x200 meter and 4x400 meter relays at the state championships. Emelia earned all-state recognition in all four events.

Following her outstanding junior season in 2022, Emelia was recognized as the Mt. Hood conference athlete of the year and has won the conference leadership award twice. She was also voted as the most dedicated athlete on the Clackamas team.

"We are excited to have Emelia join the Vandal track family. She will add depth to our sprint crew as well as get it done in the classroom." -Tim Cawley, Director of Track & Field /Cross Country