SANTIAGO, Chile—In a group of some of the best throwers in the world, Northwestern State thrower Djimon Gumbs proved he belonged on the big stage.

Gumbs, a senior for NSU, tested himself in South America and did not disappoint, throwing a 54.70 meters in the discus in the Juegos PanAm. The throws placed him ninth in the field of 12.

Among the 12 competitors, Gumbs was the second youngest.

The throw from Gumbs beat out his toss of 52.57 meters at the NCAA East Regional prelims in the summer. His personal best toss in the event took place at the Cowboy Relays in the outdoor season opener in March when he threw a British Virgin Islands record 62.77 meters.

Lucas Nervi of the host country of Chile took home the gold in the event with an impressive toss of 63.39 meters. Colombia's Mauricio Ortega brought home the silver medal to his country with a throw of 61.86 meters.

Fedrick Dacres of Jamaica came away with the bronze with a throw of 61.25 meters, narrowly beating out Cuba's Mario Diaz (61.09) to earn the final podium spot.

Gumbs is back in action Friday when he competes in the shot put to round out his appearance in the Juegos PanAm.