LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A Louisville Cardinal has been named to the USA Track and Field roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics. 

Jayden Ulrich will compete in the women’s discus throw in Paris. She is making history with her appearance, as she is the first track and field athlete in Louisville history to represent the United States in the Olympics. UofL’s Chinwe Okoro threw discus for Team Nigeria at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

“Being selected to the U.S. Olympic team is indicative of Jayden’s ability and dedication that has allowed her to reach the pinnacle of our sport,” said director of track & field and cross country Joe Franklin. “Making the team and becoming the first U.S. Olympian in our program’s history is not only important for Jayden, but also for the entire University of Louisville to be represented on the Olympic stage.”

The women’s discus throw competition opens on Aug. 2 with qualifying rounds beginning at 12:55 p.m. ET for the first group and 2:20 p.m. ET for the second group. The top 12 after each qualifying round advance to the finals, which are set for Aug. 5 at 2:30 p.m.

Louisville's Jayden Ulrich is 25th in the World Athletics rankings in the discus and in June 2024 won the silver medal for discus at the United States Track & Field Olympic Team Trials. (Louisville Athletics)

“I couldn’t be more excited to represent Team USA at the upcoming Olympic Games,” said Ulrich. “It means so much that all the work I’ve put in is finally paying off!”

 “Jayden’s selection to the United States Olympic team is a testament to her ability, determination, and fortitude that is required for her sport,” added throws coach Cory Martin. “I am humbled to play a part in her development as an Olympian and appreciate the support from Joe Franklin and his tireless efforts to ensure every athlete has the opportunity to represent their country at the highest level.”

Ulrich is 25th in the World Athletics rankings in the event and last month won the silver medal for discus at the United States Track & Field Olympic Team Trials.

She is the 2024 NCAA runner-up in the women’s discus throw and was honored as the USTFCCCA Southeast Regional Women’s Field Athlete of the Year and ACC Women’s Field Athlete of the Year. Ulrich, who will be a senior, is from East Alton, Ill.

The University of Louisville has had its athletes make appearances at the Olympics over the years. For Louisville Track & Field, they are:  

Men

• Matt Hughes – Men’s 3000m Steeplechase – Team Canada – 2016, 2020
• Wesley Korir – Men’s Marathon – Team Kenya – 2016 
• Ben Williams – Men’s Triple Jump – Team Great Britain – 2020

Women

• Chinwe Okoro – Women’s Discus Throw – Team Nigeria – 2016
• Jayden Ulrich – Women’s Discus Throw – Team USA – 2024

Coach

• Ron Mann – Middle Distance Coach – Team USA – 2008