Jennifer Hansen won the pole vault with an NCAA Division II automatic qualifying mark to lead the Slippery Rock University women's track and field team on the first day of the Golden Flash Gala hosted by Kent State University.

Hansen, who sat out last year with an injury, cleared 12 feet, 7Z\x inches.

She was joined by Kelly Fischer (10-10, eighth place) and Knoch graduate Sarah Reppermund (10-6, 11th place).

On the men's side, Terrece Draper was the highest-placing Rock athlete, finishing eighth in the long jump with a leap of 21-2.

The invitational continues Saturday.