ROCK ISLAND, Ill., and JOLIET, Ill. -- Rockford University women's outdoor track and field student-athlete Ashley Mersch continued her pursuit of a national qualifying mark in the discus over the weekend, competing at the Augustana Penultimate Qualifier and the University of St. Francis Fighting Chance Invite.

Mersch broke her own school record on Friday at the Augustana Penultimate Qualifier with a throw of 44.25m (145-2) to place fifth in the event.

Mersch later competed at the University of St. Francis Fighting Chance Invite but did not record a mark. Following her record-breaking performance on Friday, she currently ranks 27th nationally in the discus throw. The top 22 qualifiers advance to the national championships.

Mersch is scheduled to compete next at the Augustana Midwest Twilight Qualifier on Thursday, May 14.