50-for-50: Don Cliver, Track & Field 1975-77
In 2021 LB celebrates the 50-year anniversary of its athletics program. Beginning in January, we will highlight people, teams and moments from the past five decades of Roadrunner Athletics. You can nominate a former athlete, coach, team, suppter or memorable moment from LB Athletics using this form.
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The Early Years: 1969-1979
Don Cliver, Track & Field 1975-77
Don Cliver was a standout javelin thrower for Linn-Benton from 1975-77 and became the track & field program's first individual national champion in 1976, winning the NJCAA javelin title with a throw of 229-6.
Cliver won the title on his final throw of the competition. His previous marks were 218, 220 and 223. Cliver's win helped lead the Roadrunners to its best-ever finish (8th), scoring 25 points at the 1976 championship meet in Pasadena, Texas.
Also competing at the championship meet was high jumper Bob Keith (finished 2nd), pole vaulter Tim Weller (finished T-2nd) and hurdler Pete Sekermestrovich.
Cliver returned to the NJCAA Championships in 1977, placing third.
A standout thrower for Central Linn High School, Cliver earned a full scholarship to University of Nebraska. He only lasted three days in Nebraska, however, citing homesickness and a desire to return to Oregon. Cliver returned and drifted from track & field altogether. He went to work in the logging industry for a few years before walking into LB track and field coach Dave Bakley's office with a desire to throw again.
He enrolled in LB's auto technology program and after leaving LB, and a decorated track & field career, Cliver pursued his passion for cars and became a drag racer, earning success in that arena as well.
