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August 22:  World Shot Put Bronze for Michelle Carter in Beijing

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10May: World Leading, 27:30. Stephen Sambu wins Great Manchester Run

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11May: Walker Wins Jamaica World Challenge & 2nd at Drake Street Vault, 5.70

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20 April:  Wesley Korir finishes 5th at 2015 Boston Marathon

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2015 European Indoor Silver Medalist, 4.70

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Katerina wins 2015 Millrose Games with 15 feet clearance, 4.60.

7 Feb.: Melissa Gergel finished Second at Boston Indoor Games Pole Vault

Pole Vault - Women

1 Saxer , Mary USA 4.50
2 Gergel , Melissa USA 4.50
3 Suhr , Jennifer USA 4.50
4 Stefanídi , Ekateríni GRE 4.40
5 Nageotte , Katie USA 4.40

Personal Best For Stefanidi and Gergel at 2015 Pole Vault Summint

Reno- Katerina Stefanidi cleared 4.60 to win the 2015 Pole Vault Summit in Reno, Nevada. Becky Holiday finished second place with 4.50 make on first attempt. 2011 NCAA Champion, Melissa Gergel also cleared 4.50 to finish third place with an indoor personal best.

LINK 1 November: Big Season for Katerina Stefanidi continues with multi-year deal with Nike

STORY LINK: Ekaterini Stefanidi Explains how she reached new heights in Pole Vault

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Video: AMERICAN DISCUS RECORD, 69.19 Gia Lewis-Smallwood

28 August: Gia Smalllwood throws her second best lifetime throw of 67.32 and finished second place at Weltklasse Zurich. Katerina Stefanidi recorded another 15 feet vault with a clearance of 4.67. Both finished 2nd place overall in Diamond League points.

VIDEO: 25 August: Stefanidi 4.57 Wins Birmingham DL

17 August: Stephen Sambu wins his Falmouth Road Race Debut

Cape Cod News: Click link

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Stefanidi wins A Silver Medal at the European Outdoor Championships

14 Aug: Greek New Story-Click Here

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20 July: London- Tia Brooks scored her best Europe finish ever at Sainsbury Anniversary Games with a 4th place, 18.63 mark. Michelle Carter, season best throw of 19.80 was good enough for 2nd place. Brad Walker, cleared 5.50 for 4th place. Kurt Roberts best European put of 21.05, 3rd place.

Monaco: 18 July-  Michelle Carter and Katerina Stefanidi each finished respectable third place in Herculis Monaco, Diamond League Events. Stefanidi cleared 4.71 to tie Greek National Record. Carter threw 19.05m for podium finish

14 July: Stefanidi finished 2nd Place in Glasgow Diamond League with 4.65 clearance

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Stephen Sambu managed to break the World 8k record en route to 10k in Boston. His time of 22.01 eclipses the old mark. He went on to win the race with a Personal Best time of 27:25

26:54!!! Sambu
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Prefontaine Classic

15 Feet Pole Vault in Chula Vista for Stefanidi
Chula Vista: 29 May- Katerina Stefanidi cleared a life time Personal Pole Vault best by clearing 4.57 on her first attempt today, near San Diego, California. Her next competition will be in New York City on Broadway, June 11.
May 10: Stephen Sambu captures Central Park in a Personal Best time of 27:39

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SAMBU, CHEPKIRUI COMPLETE KENYAN SWEEP AT UAE HEALTHY KIDNEY 10-K

By Chris Lotsbom, @ChrisLotsbom

(c) 2014 Race Results Weekly, all rights reserved





NEW YORK (10-May) -- Stephen Sambu and Joyce Chepkirui aggressively ran their way to titles here at the tenth annual UAE Healthy Kidney 10-K in Central Park, picking up $25,000 each in the process. Despite soaking humidity, Sambu just missed setting an event record by finishing in a career best 27:39, while Chepkirui's 31:17 was well under the previous event record in her New York City racing debut.


SAMBU EARNS TITLE IN DRAMATIC FASHION, NEARLY BREAKS EVENT (AND A WORLD) RECORD


From the get-go, two-time champion and 10-K world record holder Leonard Patrick Komon looked like a man on a mission. As the starting horn sounded, it was the 26-year-old bolting out to the pole position, eventually reaching the mile in a speedy 4:18. By that point, the race was already down to two, as Sambu tailed adrift by five or so meters.


"I have to, I think about doing the first two miles hard," said Komon, replicating his race strategy of a year ago. In 2013, Komon timed 4:18 for each of the opening two miles, going on to win in 27:58. Today, he would do exactly the same, reaching two miles in 8:36.


Up and down Central Park's hills, Komon and Sambu were a complete contrast of one another, only sharing their bright neon yellow Nike vests and black shorts.


Komon was working in vain, pumping his arms furiously to maintain the pace. Head rocking side to side, lips bouncing up and down, the native of West Pokot looked to be laboring. At one point, his heavy breathing was even audible from the lead vehicle.


On the other hand, Sambu was calm as could be. Eyes up ahead, the University of Arizona alum kept his arms steady by his side, not showing any sign of stress on his face or in his stride.


"[I knew] to be careful for the first 5-K because I knew the last 5-K was going to be tough," he said.


Rounding the north end of Central Park, Komon's discomfort came to a boiling point. After cresting the steepest hill of the course, adjacent to 110th Street, Sambu came up on Komon's shoulder ready to make a move.


Sambu never broke stride as he reached out for a cup of water with his left hand before crossing the five kilometer checkpoint in 13:40, one step and one second ahead of Komon.


On a day that saw 61-degree temperatures and a sticky humidity of 93%, Sambu gulped a few drops of water then put down the hammer. Clearly, the hot early pace had gotten to Komon, who in a flash was more than 10 seconds back.


"My throat was getting dry so I took a sip of water and then I feel good," said the 25-year-old. "I thought Komon was still following me so I didn't know he was way, way back from me. I didn't look back."


Approaching eight kilometers, Sambu had a shot at breaking the Association of Road Racing Statisticians (ARRS) world record of 22:03 (22:02.2), set by Peter Githuka in 1996 at the Crazy 8's 8-K in Kingsport, Tennessee. Gritting his teeth, Sambu crossed the official timing mat at 22:05.


"I just missed it," he said, emphasizing the words just and missed. "I wasn't thinking because I was feeling pain. It was tough."


Knowing there was a lucrative $30,000 event record bonus on the line if he broke Komon's 2011 time of 27:35, Sambu continued to push on alone.


At 400 meters to go, Sambu needed an approximate 65-second quarter mile and the bonus check was his. Accelerating downhill, he'd round a bend before making an unfortunate error.


At a slight fork in the road, Sambu was unsure of which way to go: follow the tangent and go left, or trail the lead vehicle --which was leaving the course-- and go right. Although he had run the race last year, Sambu had a moment of confusion, and decided to go right. He made it four steps before the shouts of many directed him to reverse course and go the opposite way around the barrier. By that time, valuable seconds had ticked away.


"The last 200 meters, you know when I saw the time I was like maybe I'll get the course record," he recalled. "And then when I came over there I missed, I missed the turn by a little bit. You know I was going to get it, I was going to get it but then when I turned around I just lost it."


Despite accelerating once again, Sambu came up four seconds short of Komon's mark and the bonus.


"A little bit, but I'm happy because I win," he said, answering a reporter's question on whether he was disappointed. "It is really good, I am so happy. Always to win, it is good," he said. "This is my biggest win [of my career]... I am happy."


Komon held on for second ahead of the hard charging Olympians, Italy's Daniele Meucci and Australia's Collis Birmingham. Their times were 28:18, 28:19, and 28:23, respectively.  Both Meucci and Birmingham set personal bests.


For the first time since February of 2011, Komon had lost a 10-K contest on the roads.


"I feel a little bit challenged today because it was not easy," said Komon, noting that he thought Sambu would come back to him in the race's second half. "Not always you can win. Sometimes you lose, sometimes you win, and you have to move on because we have still long careers."


Rounding out the top five was Morocco's Mourad Marofit in 28:50.

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26 April (Des Moines): Katerina Stefanidi finished 3rd in the Drake Relays Pole Vault. Riley Dolezal won the Javelin at Drake.


La Jolla: Olympian, Tia Brooks was the winner of Triton Invitational Shot Put. Her winning throw was 18.50.

Mike Arnold
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April, 24, 2014 Des Moines Register News

19 April: Dolezal,Stefanidi win at 2014 Mt. SAC Relays 
Katerina Stefanidi cleared an outdoor personal best of 4.55 to win the Mt. SAC Relays pole vault. She won on a count back with Kylie Hutson. Riley Dolezal captured the men's javelin. Samyr Laine finished third in the triple jump.
Recent, 70 foot shot put man, Kurt Roberts as signed to be represent by Karen Locke. He qualified for 2014 World Indoor Championships. (17 March)

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Sambu, Mo, Geoffrey
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March 16- Top 3: 2014 NYC Half Marathon

5 March: David Torrence named USATF Athlete of the Week


INDIANAPOLIS -- David Torrence earns USA Track & Field Athlete of the Week after his record-setting 1,000-meter performance at the Boston University Last Chance Meet, Sunday, March 2.


Torrence (Oakland, Calif.) broke the tape in 2:16.76, surpassing the 12-year-old American record of 2:17.86 set by David Krummenacker in 2002.


A 2008 graduate of the University of California-Berkeley, Torrence was an All-America distance runner in his four years as a Golden Bear, and he may already be turning in his most prolific campaign to date at just over two months into the 2014 indoor season.


At the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix in January, Torrence ran a crucial leg on a team also consisting of Richard Jones, Duane Solomon and Erik Sowinski, who combined for a phenomenal time of 7:13.11 to break a 14-year-old 4x800m relay world-record.


Torrence gained national attention in 2009, when he won the first ever road mile championships to become the first man to run under four minutes in a road mile in the state of Minnesota. 


Now in its 13th year, USATF’s Athlete of the Week program is designed to recognize outstanding performers at all levels of the sport. USATF names a new honoree each week and features the athlete on www.usatf.org. Selections are based on top performances and results from the previous week.


Mike Arnold
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Karen Locke will represent Mike Arnold

Indoor Personal Best for Stefanidi at Reno Pole Vault Summit
17 January-  2012 NCAA Champion and Olympian, Katerina Stefanidi cleared 4.51 and tried 4.61 while finishing third place in the 2013 Reno Pole Vault Summit.


MARY  SAXER  4.61


BECKY HOLLIDAY  4.51


EKATERINI  STEFANIDI  4.51


American Record Holder to be represented by Karen
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Brad Walker

Oct 13: Sambu Captures B.A.A. Title for $100.000
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Victah Photo: Half Marathon Personal Best for Stephen, 1:00:41

 6 July- Montano and Carter shine in Paris Diamond League

Michelle Carter finished second place to Olympic Champion shot put champion, Valerie Adams with a mark of 19.65. Alysia Montano posted a season's best time of 1:57.75 to finished third place in the 800 meter run.

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Ex-Red Oak and UT star Michelle Carter sets American shot put record at U.S. Track and Field Championships (22 June)




DES MOINES, Iowa — Michelle Carter, a Red Oak and Texas-ex who lives in Ovilla, set an American record in the shot put with a throw of 66 feet, 5 inches on her way to the title Saturday at the U.S. Track And Field Championships.

It was the fourth national outdoors title for Carter, who is coached by her father, Michael, an SMU alum and an Olympic silver medalist in the shot put. She earned a trip to the World Championships in Moscow.

Carter’s put was nearly five feet longer than runner-up Tia Brooks’ best effort.

“It felt good,” Michelle Carter said. “We’ve been training for a peak this time of year. This is like a small one and then we’ll see what happens. I’ve been working really hard trying to put everything together and get ready for Russia.”

Photo Credit: David Monti

Sambu Captures B.A.A series lead
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23 June: Winning B.A.A. 10k , 28.05

June 1-  Adams and Carter finish 1st and 3rd at Prefonataine Classic
Shot Put - Women 1 Adams , Valerie NZL 20.15 2 Gong , Lijiao CHN 20.12 3 Carter , Michelle USA 19.65 4 Liu , Xiangrong CHN 18.37 5 Heltne , Anca ROU 17.65

New York-  11 May: Sambu Strong finish for 3rd Place in Health Kidney 10

9th UAE Healthy Kidney 10K
New York, NY, Saturday, May 11, 2013

MEN

1) Leonard Patrick Komon 25 KEN 27:58 $25,000
2) Moses Kipsiro 26 UGA 28:02 $12,500
3) Stephen Sambu 24 KEN 28:02 $6000
4) Abera Kuma 22 ETH 28:18 $3000
5) Collis Birmingham 28 AUS 28:29 $2000
6) Edwin Soi 27 KEN 28:37 $1000
7) Leonard Korir 26 KEN 28:44 $800
8) Ayele Feisa 25 USA 28:53 $500
9) Meb Keflezighi 38 USA 28:57
10) Ben St Lawrence 31 AUS 29:00

Gergel wins her first Mt. SAC vault. Carter opens with 19.20 win in Shot

Walnut, CA (20 April): Michelle Carter put 19.20 in prelim round at the Mt. SAC Relays to win the shot put. The mark is the second best world outdoor mark. Behind, Valerie Adams. 2011 NCAA Champion, Melissa Gergel won the women's pole vault with a first attempt clearance of 4.40 meters. Gergel travels to Drake Relays next week.

3 March: #2 World Indoor throw by Michelle Carter to Win in Albuquerque 19.41

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2012 Olympic Shot Put finalist, Michelle Carter won her third U.S.A. championship. She previously won two outdoor championships. This becomes her first U.S. senior indoor win. Her series was consistent with puts over 60 feet. Her final throw of 19.41 is the second best put indoors globally in 2013.

27 January- Sambu win Half Marathon debut in Carlsbad, 1:03.02

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18 January 2013: Viuf 3rd at Pole Vault Summit
Reno- Katy Viuf began her season with a third place finish at the North American Pole Vault Summit in Reno, Nevada. She cleared 4.40  (14 feet 5 inches). The event was won by World Indoor Champion, Fabiana Murer with a mark of 15 feet.

CLICK LINK-12/1: Stephen Sambu, Arizona All-American, to transition to Road Racing

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Photo Credit: PhotoRun

Greek Olympian, NCAA Champion, Katerina Stefanidi joins Elite Athletes Network

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He's ready for Chicago Marathon, but Kenyan runner's passion is providing medical care in impoverished hometown

By Philip Hersh, Chicago Tribune reporter

7:15 PM CDT, September 29, 2012

This is a story about a man who runs, a man who runs fast enough to have won the Boston Marathon and the Los Angeles Marathon twice and to be one of the favorites in next Sunday's Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

But this is not a story about a runner, because what Wesley Korir does in running shoes is but a small part of this man who runs.

He says he wants to become president of Kenya one day. People who know him, people who have seen him invest heart, soul and wallet to better the lives of his fellow Kenyans, do not find such a role beyond Korir's reach.

Look how far he has come from a poor, alcoholism-ridden village in Kitale township of western Kenya. And how close he remains to that village, Biribiriet, building a clinic, underwriting the education of some of its children, paying for the food of orphans his mother takes into her home.

"This is a man who has given to humanity more than any man I have ever met," said Bill Smock, a Louisville, Ky., physician who led the team of medical professionals who helped Korir get the 10-bed clinic running in July.

In eight days, Smock and his colleagues treated 3,500 people who never had previous access to free medical care, who had been too poor to pay for it. The visiting doctors, medical students and nurses saved the lives of at least six children.

That was just a start. The clinic has been seeing an average of 50 people a day since it opened. Korir has persuaded the University of Louisville, his alma mater, to embark on programs that will bring health care, clean water and education to the Kitale area on a continuing basis.

"Wesley is one of the most remarkable people I have ever met," said Toni Ganzel, interim dean of the University of Louisville School of Medicine. "He takes his passions and strengths and vision about making the world a better place and puts it into tangible action."

Long before he began making money as a runner, Korir would take part of the salary he earned as a maintenance worker at the university and send it back to Kenya. Now that he earns well into six figures annually, he simply sends more back through his charity, the Kenyan Kids Foundation.

"This little boy who used to walk barefoot, sleep on the floor of a hut, sometimes not have food … now look where I am," Korir said. "It is so amazing. Sometimes I just sit back and laugh about the journey."

Korir lives pieces of each year in his houses in Kentucky and Kenya and in a basement apartment at his in-laws' home in Kitchener, Ontario. He has a biology degree, a wife and 2-year-old daughter as well as a running career in which he seems to be hitting full stride at 29.

In a country renowned for runners, Korir fell into elite running almost accidentally. It would be one of the many serendipitous twists in his journey, none of which he views as coincidence. He sees them all as part of God's plan for him, and you become inclined to look at it that way after hearing him tell the story.

Student opportunities

Wesley Korir, one of his family's nine children, always was a good student. But he had trouble staying in high school because his father, a subsistence farmer, could not always raise the $400 annual fee for St. Joseph's in Kitale, one of the private schools that remain the best places for rural Kenyan children to get good educations.

Willie Walshe, a 64-year-old Irish missionary priest who has lived in Kenya since 1973, was Korir's high school English teacher. With help from family and friends in Ireland, the priest filled in the financial gaps for many students, including Korir, whom Walshe describes as a "diligent, conscientious, fine young man."

Accepted at the University of Nairobi, Korir could not afford the tuition. Desperate to avoid a dead-end existence in his village, he moved two hours away to Eldoret to live with a cousin and do chores in the cousin's house. Korir, who had run some low-level races in high school, would go out every morning for a workout without really knowing why he was training.

Paul Ereng, the 1988 Olympic 800-meter champion who grew up in Kitale, was then managing a group of professional runners in Eldoret. Walshe, who knew Ereng, emailed to see if he could help Korir.

Ereng, a graduate of Virginia and now an assistant coach at Texas-El Paso, told Korir he should try to get a track scholarship at a U.S. university. Ereng contacted an old friend, Norbert Elliott, then the coach at Murray State in Murray, Ky.

Korir arrived in Kentucky in January 2004. Not long after Korir began competing for Murray State, the coach told him the men's track program was being phased out, with the end planned before Korir would graduate. But Elliott put Korir in touch with his friend, Ron Mann, who became head coach at Louisville in July 2004.

By then, Korir had won the Ohio Valley Conference titles in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters. Other schools, including Arkansas and Georgia, flew Korir for visits to discuss a possible transfer. Louisville arranged a bus ticket.

Korir took the five-hour ride. It led to the place where he met his wife and made connections that allowed him to fulfill his athletic and humanistic potential. Mann is his coach to this day. Louisville became his promised land.

Generous upbringing

Korir's mother, Roseline Chelimo, gave him the spirit of generosity and strong Christian faith that had sustained her through years of a hardscrabble existence with a husband, Nehemiah, whose good qualities often were drowned in alcohol. With that religious grounding, Korir did not need an epiphany to have a sense of altruism or of what was important in life.

But there was an epiphany, one so terrifying it seemed to come right from the Book of Revelation.

Korir had returned to Kenya at Christmas in 2007 to renew his visa. At the end of that year, a controversial presidential election led to violence between members of his tribe, the Kalenjin, and the Kikuyu, Kenya's politically dominant tribe.

Incumbent Mwai Kibaki, a Kikuyu, was declared the winner. Eldoret, where Korir was staying with his cousin, became an epicenter of deadly reprisals. One day a Kalenjin mob insisted he and the cousin join them. The cousin told Korir to flee rather than be swept up in tribal pressure for vengeance.

"I had to be the shy one, the coward one," Korir said. "I knew this violence wasn't right."

Korir would work his way past Kalenjin roadblocks over the 80 miles west to safety in Uganda. Two weeks later, with the help of the Louisville coaches, he got the visa and returned to the U.S.

Before he began the escape by running into a cornfield, Korir watched the mob set fire to what he thought was the most magnificent house in Eldoret. In 30 minutes, the Kikuyu home had burned to the ground.

"That put into deeper perspective what is important in this life," he said. "I needed to put more emphasis on helping people than investing in material things."

Korir, whose top collegiate running achievement was a Big East title, had planned to become a doctor. Not long before getting his undergraduate degree in December 2008, he was filling out applications to medical schools when he decided to run the Chicago Marathon.

Race officials denied his request to run with the elite, who started five minutes ahead of the mass field. He wound up running alone nearly the whole way and finished with a time that was fourth fastest overall. Rules prevented him from getting the $15,000 prize for fourth place, but race director Carey Pinkowski quietly apologized to Korir and made good on a promise he would get the money.

The episode attracted attention that would be worth far more than the money. Korir was no longer just another Kenyan with a high finish in a marathon.

Eight months later, still a relative unknown but a designated elite runner in the Los Angeles Marathon, Korir set a course record to win the race, $160,000 and a car. He kept his job as a maintenance man for another year.

He won Los Angeles again in 2010. He has run Chicago four straight times, finishing second last year in a career-best time of 2 hours, 6 minutes, 15 seconds. And then he went to Boston last April, beating an exceptionally strong field on a brutally hot day with a time of 2:12:40.

Korir thought winning Boston would be good enough to make the Kenyan Olympic team. The Kenyan track federation, rife with its usual internal machinations, thought otherwise.

That disappointment turned out to be a blessing for Korir and his people.

Louisville lifeline

For several years, the Louisville medical school had sent a team of doctors and students to Mombasa, Kenya. This year's group was preparing to leave when a deadly terrorist bombing at a Mombasa nightclub June 24 led the State Department to advise against travel to the area. Louisville canceled the trip.

When Korir heard what had happened, he immediately saw an opportunity. He asked if the mission could go instead to his village, where he had taken over a $30,000 project to build a clinic that had languished for 10 years.

With financial help from Hall Steps, the foundation created by another deeply religious marathoner, two-time U.S. OIympian Ryan Hall, the physical part of the clinic had been finished. Now Korir hoped for help in training the permanent staff. The Louisville medical school agreed to switch its trip to Biribiriet in July.

"It was like divine intervention," Ganzel said.

Korir had two weeks to arrange logistics for a 20-person group. Nothing would stop him. This was a way to honor the memory of the brother who died of a snake bite when he was 9 because medical care was miles away.

"Wesley worked miracles," Smock said. "He is an incredible, incredible man."

Korir's wife, Canadian runner and Louisville grad Tarah McKay, said he became so consumed by the task that training for the Chicago Marathon went to the back burner some days. All Korir cared about were the hundreds of people who lined up every morning, waiting for the clinic to open.

His attention remains divided. Through an organization called SOS, Korir has arranged for a 40-foot container of medical supplies to be delivered to the clinic this fall. Another Louisville medical school team will go next July, and Ganzel hopes to add a second trip each year. It also could include students from the university's nursing school, dental school and school of public health.

"When you would help the children, you would see their families smile,'' Korir said. "I told my wife, 'This is what I want to do the rest of my life, to make people smile.' ''

Korir is sure God was seeing those smiles. Maybe that is why his training for Chicago has been the best marathon buildup of his career.

"Whether I finish 10th or eighth or second or first in Chicago, I know it will be because God planned it," he said. "I work hard to do my part so God can use me as he wants."

Korir wants to win. It would mean a bigger cash prize and more money for the Kenyan Kids Foundation. It would mean Korir can help pay school fees for more than the 40 children he now supports.

"Running is just a stepping stone," he said. "When I die, I don't want people to say, 'Wesley the great runner.' I want people to say, 'Wesley the person that helped change people's lives.' ''

Thousands of people would say that already.

30 Sep VIDEO CLICK A chat with the 2012 Chicago marathon leading contender, Wesley Korir

CLICK video: 2 September- 2nd Place, Weltklasse Zurich, Michelle Carter

26 August: Olympic Finalist, Carter superb on European Circuit
Michelle Carter won both DecaNation and Memorial Istvan Gylulai Meetings. Michelle has her best throw of 19.60 meters in the  Lausanne Diamond League Meeting to finish second place. She also finished second place in the Birmingham Diamond League, shot put

Falmouth- David Torrence was the winner in the Falmouth Mile last night with a time of 3:55.46. He outkicked  Jordan McNamara down the home stretch of James Kalperis track. Cal alum, Chelsea Reilly recorded a personal best to finish 3rd in the women's mile with a time of 4:30.18. David's  next race is DN Galan Stockholm.

August 6, London- Two-Time Olympian, Michelle Carter finished a strong 5th place in the 2012 London Olympic Shot Put. The best mark of the evening was Valerie Adams winning the gold medal.

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July 21- Melissa Gergel finished 2nd place in Ninove, Belgium Flanders Cup Meeting pole vault. David Torrence ran his first 800 meter race of 2012 in a time of 1:46.90 to finish third place.
July 17 - David Torrence finished 2nd place in Lignano 1500 meters with a time of 3:37.57.  Michelle Carter finished 3rd in the shot put. Hyleas Fountain finished 4th place in the long jump Katy Viuf cleared 4.31 to take 5th place in Spitzen Lucerne Meeting. 

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7 July- 2012 Australian Olympian, David Mc Neill ran a personal best for 5000 meters at the Knight of Athletics Meeting in Heusden, Belgium. His time of 13:18.60 posted has his second Olympic qualifying mark in 2012.

CLICK LINK : Fountain Wins another Olympic Trials Heptathlon

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29 June- 2008 Olympic finalist, Michelle Carter finished second place in the Olympic Trials to earn another chance to compete in the Olympic Games shot put. She joins Jill Williams and Tia Brooks to represent the United States.
Eugene, 6/26- Derek Miles qualified for his third Olympic Team in the pole vault. He was memeber of 2004, 2008 and now 2012 Teams. Khadevis Robinson also qualified for the London Olympics by finishing second place in the 800 meters with a time of 1:44.6. He is now a 2-Time Olympian.

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26 June- K.D. Qualifies for London Olympics
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Portland 6/9 - David Mc Neill finished third place with a solid run in the Portland Festival of Races 5000 meters at Shelton Track at Lewis & Clark College.

   5000 Meter Run Elite Open Men

 

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    Name                 Year Team         Finals

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  1 Dathan Ritzenhein         NORP       13:19.78

  2 Aaron Braun               ADI7       13:20.25

  3 David McNeill             UNA        13:21.62

  

6/10  Khadevis on Top in Vancouver 800 meters 1:45.15
Khadevis Robinson chased down Duane Solomon to win the Harry Jerome Classic 800 meters with a time of 1:45.16. Solomon was time in 1:45.66 for second place.
6/9 Michelle Carter and David Torrence Shine at New York Diamond League
2012 World Indoor Bronze Medalist, Michelle Carter finished third place in the Shot Put with a season's best mark of 19.32 (63 feet 5 inches). Rising Star David Torrence also finished third in the 1500 meters. He ran another Olympic Standard qualifying time of 3:35.48. Both will now prepare for U.S. Olympic Trials.

Eugene, June 2: Khadevis Robinson opened his 2012 season in the  800 meters with a time of 1:44.5 to finish fourth place at the Prefontaine Classic. David Torrence finished 9th place in the Bowerman Mile with a personal best run of 3:52.01.

Rome, May 31- Olympians, Michelle Carter and Michelle Perry both finished 4th place in their respective events. 100 meter hurdles and shot put.

Tucson 5/19- Hyleas Fountain won the long jump in Tucson with a leap of 22 feet 1 3/4 inches (6.75m). She also cleared 1.85m for second place overall in the Tucson Elite high jump. 

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Wesley Korir wins 2012 Boston Marathon
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Wesley Korir breaking the tape in Boston

21 April- Michelle Perry wins 2012 Mt. SAC Relays
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Two-Time World Champion, Michelle Perry

Perry Returns with 100 meter hurdle Victory at UCLA

Los Angeles (4/14) Two-Time World Champion, Michelle Perry returned with a 2012 outdoor debut victory in the 100 meter hurdles today, while competing at UCLA's Rafer Johnson, Jackie Joyner Kersee meeting. Her winning time was 12.75

New York- While finishing fourth place at the New York Half Marathon, Wesley Korir slashed his personal best by over one minute and finished in 61:19. His next event will be the Boston Marathon in April.

Top Results: 3/19/2012

MEN - 1. Peter Cheruiyot Kirui, 59:39  2. Deriba Merga, 59:48 3. Feyisa Lilesa,  1:00:454. Wesley Korir, KEN, 1:01:19  5. Sam Chelanga1:01:19 PB; 6. Kevin Chelimo,  1:01:21 7. Chris Thompson, 1:01:23  8. Scott Overall,  1:01:25  9. Marilson Gomes Dos Santos, 1:01:26 10. Michael Shelley, 1:01:27 

Michelle Carter Captures Bronze World Indoor
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10 March, Istanbul - Olympic Finalist, Michelle Carter won her first major shot put medal today at the 2012 World Indoor Championships with a personal best throw of 19.58 meters (64 ft. 5 inches). Michelle is coached by her father, Olympic Silver Medalist, Michael Carter. She finished in bronze position. 

3/5 Runner's World: Brief Chat: Wesley Korir in Eldoret

Feb. 26 Carter, Indoor Personal Best in the Shot, 19.27  (63-2 3/4)

Albuquerque- 2011 USA Outdoor Champion, Michelle Carter threw a personal best of 19.27 meters in the shot put to finish second place and qualify for the World Indoor Championships. Carter lead the event through round 4.

 2 Feb: Miles clears 18-4 1/2 at  Bill Hillenbrand at Dakota Dome

Vermillion - Two-Time Olympic Finalist Derek Miles cleared 5.60 (18-4 1/2) on a first attempt. Miles had first attempt clearances at 5.40, 5.50 and close make attempts at 5.70 while competing in the pole vault at the University of South Dakota last night.

11 Jan: Hyleas Fountain chosen for Budweiser Summer Olympic Program

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Beijing Silver Medalist, Hyleas Fountain is among the featured Olympians selected to promote the 2012 London Olympic Games. Fountain is a 6-Time U.S. National Champion. She has won titles in both Heptathlon and long jump.

Guadalajara: 10/29 Lanaro and Carter Capture Medals at Pan American Games

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Giovanni Lanaro became a Two-Time Pan Am Medalist yesterday in the pole vault. He previously won silver in 2007. Michelle Carter braced the podium for her first senior appearance in the Games in bronze position.

10/12: Korir's Chicago gamble pays off with personal best

Click for Today's Korir story

10/9-  2:06:15 Personal Best for Wesley Korir at Chicago Marathon

Wesley Korir had a previous best time of 2:08:24. Today, he lowered his record to 2:06:15 to finish second place at the Chicago Marathon.



1. Moses Mosop,  2:05:37

2. Wesley Korir, 2:06:15

3. Bernard Kipyego, , 2:06.29


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Citi Kicks Off ‘Citi Team USA Flag Tour’ in Sioux Falls to Celebrate Sponsorship of 2012 U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Teams


10/6- CLICK! Link to story Citi Flag Raising with Derek Miles

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10/5: Wesley Korir visits Pershing West in Chicago
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Stephen Colbert tweets about Chelsea Johnson

 

Well, I've exhausted my baseball knowledge. On to pole vaulting! How about Chelsea Johnson taking the silver in the '09 Worlds? #Colbert

Colbert Tweets Chelsea Johnson

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9/29: Derek Miles Joins Citibank USA Olympic Flag Tour

NEW YORK (USA): Citi is the official bank sponsor of the 2012 U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams and U.S. Olympic Committee. August marked a year out Tour leading up to the London Games. Beijing 4th placer and reigning U.S. Olympic Trials Pole Vault Champ, Derek Miles will participate in celebrating with a flag raising event in Sioux Falls on October 6 and share his Olympic experience with Citibank employees and community. Miles is a two time Olympian and current U.S. Champion in 2011.

9/18 Fountain achieved Olympic "A" Standard in Long Jump at DecaNation

Nice, France:



1  6m91 (+0.8)  LESUEUR Eloyse    FRANCE  6m83(+0.8) / 6m71(+1.8) / 6m91(+0.8) / X

2  6m85 (+4.4) PIDLUZHNAYA Yuliya (Rus)  RUSSIE X / 6m85(+4.4) / 6m74(+3.1) / X

3  6m76 (+1.0)FOUNTAIN Hyleas (Usa)6m23(+0.5) / 6m57(+2.3) / 6m70(+1.5) / 6m76(+1.0)


17 Sep: Kyle Miller, 2nd Place at USA v Great Britian Road Mile Challenge

Newcastle- In the men's mile, Bernard Lagat eased to victory in just four minutes and six seconds, ahead of teammate Kyle Miller 4:08. UK and NI champion Andrew Osagie grabbed third spot during the Great North Games, USA v Great Britian Challenge.


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23 July  1:44.03 for Khadevis Robinson in Monaco

Monte Carlo- Khadevis Robinson finished his Euro racing stint with a time of 1:44.03 and finished 5th place in IAAF Monaco 800 meters. He managed to win two races prior. He travels home to prepare for Daegu Championships.

19 July   KD Wins his third Lignano 800, Season's Best

Lignano- Celebrating his birthday tonight, Meeting record holder, Khadevis Robinson won third Lignano 800 meter race with a season's best time of 1:44.45. David Torrence finished second place in 1:45.9

Italy- Giovanni Lanaro won his second pole vault competition (2007-2011) in Padova. Khadevis made his first appearance there and won with a time of 1:46. David Torrence was the winner of the 1500 meters in Sardina. 

Derek Miles cleared 5.70 (18 ft 8 1/4 in.) to win the Gill Factory pole vault in Champaign, Illinois on July 2

3 July- K.D. Wins with ease in Victoria   1:45.8

Khadevis came to Victoria to honor and toast  recently retired, 800 meter World Silver Medalist, Gary Reed. He did so in winning fashion by placing first place in the Gary Reed 800 meters, held in conjunction with the Victoria Classic. His time was 1:45.85.

6/25- Miles win his second U.S. Outdoor Pole Vault title

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24 June-Olympic Finalist, Michelle Carter wins third  U.S. Shot put title, Becomes All Time #2

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Eugene- Olympic and World finalist, Michelle Carter became the second best thrower in American history with a second attempt throw of 19.86. It was also her second national title. She is the daughter of Olympic Silver Medalist, Michael Carter who also coaches her. Father and daughter are also high school record holders.

17 June- U.S. Discus Lead for Breisch Today



Chula Vista- Struggling to find timing over the last month. Defending U.S. discus champion, Becky Breisch has managed to time her discus throw just right today in Chula Vista with two attempts over 62.00 and final toss of 64.30. Her timing is significant as she defends her title next week at the USA Championships.



4 June- Athletes Shine at Prefontaine Classic

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Walnut, California- Mexican record holder, Giovanni Lanaro cleared 5.60 on his first attempt on Saturday to win California Meeting.


  4 June       

 =======================================================             

Finals                                                                                        

  1 Giovanni Lanaro              Mexico                   5.60m   18-04.50                    

     

  2 Jeff Coover                  unattached               5.40m   17-08.50                    

       

  3 Kyle Ballew                  Lucky Strike             4.90m   16-00.75                  

   

26 May:  Khadevis stuns the 800 field in Rome Golden Gala

Rome- While crossing the finish line first in Rome, Khadevis Robinson ran his 14th consecutive year mark of 1:45 or better. His winning time was 1:45.09.

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Khadevis Robinson   USA

  1:45.09
Mbulaeni MulaudziRSA1:45.50

Mohammad Al-AzemiKUW1:45.52

Asbel KipropKEN1:46.02

Boaz Kiplagat LalangKEN1:46.10

David Mutinda MutuaKEN1:46.64





Duane SolomonUSA1:47.27

Antonio Manuel ReinaESP1:47.43

Michael RimmerGBR1:47.68

Alfred Kirwa YegoKEN1:48.73



May 11, 2011

Korir Wins Mercedes-Benz 10K draws more than 2,000 participants

The Appleby College campus was even busier than local flower shops on Mother’s Day. More than 2,000 runners and walkers of all ages gathered at Appleby Sunday to participate in the third annual Mercedes-Benz Oakville 10K. A couple from St. Clements, Ont., stole the show in the 10-kilometre run. Wesley Korir was the overall winner of the event’s signature race, finishing in 29:11.0, while Tarah Korir was the top female finisher with a time of 34:02.6. Predrag Mladenovic of Etobicoke (30:54.5) was second overall, with Oakville’s Kevin Smith (32:20.4) placing third. In the 5K run, Port Credit’s Derek Van Schepen was the overall winner, crossing the line in 16:10.5. Oakville’s Paulina Maher claimed the women’s title, posting a time of 19:08.4, and fellow local resident Chris Leverette was second overall (16:22.8). The 10K power walk was won by Oakville’s Sarah Kohli, who finished the course in 1:05.24.4. Tim Harris of Oakville took the men’s title, finishing in 1:07:13.1. Patrick Owen of North York won the 5K power walk in a time of 38:11.3, while Oakville’s Helena Lau was the top female (40:11.9). A 1K junior jog, 300m toddler trot, Appleby Alumni Cup Challenge and High School Challenge rounded out the event schedule. This year’s Mercedes-Benz Oakville 10K raised nearly $7,000 for the United Way of Oakville, the event’s charitable partner. Justin Hall of London, the fifth-place overall finisher in the 10K run, was the random draw grand prize winner of a one-year lease for a new B-Class Mercedes-Benz, presented by Mercedes-Benz Oakville general manager Mark LeRoeye. In addition to the grand prize, finishers were rewarded with more than $5,000 worth of prizin

8 May- Khadevis Three-Peats in Kingston, Jamaica

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Kingston- Meeting record holder Khadevis Robinson returned to Jamaica to claim his third title with a season opener of 1:46.25. He set the meet record in 2009 with a time of 1:45.67. It was his first race in 2011.

Click Video- See Derek Miles winning Jump at Des Moines Mall

April 27, Des Moines- Two Time Olympian, Derek Miles won 2011 Drake Relays Mall Vault with a clearance of 5.62 (18-5 1/2). I was his second victory in this event. He was also the winner in 2008. Brad Walker finished second place by clearing 5.52 (18-1 1/2). Winning video below

4/22: Check out new Hyleas Fountain Commercial here

April 16: Lanaro Second Place in first competition

   53RD ANNUAL MT. SAC RELAYS                                                                    

  1 Roth, Scott       Washington          5.72m   18-09.25

                                                                                               

  2 Lanaro, Giovanni      Mexico          5.62m   18-05.25

                                                                                                     

  3 Sawano, Daichi        Japan           5.62m   18-05.25

  

April 9: Olympian medalist addresses BMW associates

Hyleas Fountain, 2008 U.S. Olympic Silver Medalist and 2012 Olympic hopeful, recently joined Wayne Orchowski, chief operating officer for BMW Group Financial Services in the company’s Hilliard-based, North American Regional Service Center. Fountain spoke before an audience of nearly 200 of the organizations’ associates, showcasing her personal dedication, as well as discussing how technical expertise can enhance peak performance, traits she and the company have in common, according to BMW officials. BMW Group (including BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad) is the Official Mobility Partner of the USOC from now through 2016.

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April 8: Wariner, Miles To Compete At Drake


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Wariner, Miles To Compete At Drake

Former Olympians Coming To Des Moines April 28-30

DES MOINES, Iowa—Three-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist Jeremy Wariner and two-time U.S. Olympic pole-vaulter Derek Miles will return to Drake Stadium for the 102nd Drake Relays, April 28-30, 2011. Both past Drake Relays champions will join another world-class roster of athletes slated to compete this year in America’s Athletic Classic.

“Never have I been more excited about a Drake Relays event than this year,” said Brian Brown, director of the Drake Relays. “We have an outstanding field of individuals in all of the events we’re going to offer.”

Wariner, the reigning No. 1-ranked 400-meter runner in the world, will make his fifth Drake Relays appearance, and first since winning the special invitational 400 meters in 2009 with a time of 45.06. Wariner initially competed in the Drake Relays as a collegian at Baylor, finishing second in the 400 in 2005, then winning the 200 in ’06 and placing second in the event in ‘07. Miles, who seeks to win his third Relays pole vault title in four years, and his fourth overall, will also compete in the popular “Pole Vault in the Mall” competition on Wednesday, April 27, prior to the Relays.

“Jeremy finished the season last year ranked No. 1 in the world,” Brown said. “I’m always excited when he comes to Drake University to compete in any event, but particularly when he’s going to run his specialty, the 400 meters.”

Owner of four Olympic medals, Wariner won gold in the 400 meters at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, and captured gold medals with the U.S. 4x400 meter relay teams in Athens and at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He was the silver medalist in the open 400 meters in Beijing.

Wariner has maintained the world’s No. 1 ranking in the 400 meters five of the past seven years (2004-07, ’10) and was No. 2 in 2008 and ’09. His dominant 2010 season included clocking three of the four fastest 400 meters times in the world. Wariner’s personal best of 43.45, set in 2007, is the third-fastest ever recorded.

“I’m excited to come back this year to Drake,” Wariner said. “Last year I was not able to come because I was injured, but the crowd has always been great there and supported me with everything I’ve done. I’m just looking forward to coming back this year.”

Miles has become a fixture of the Drake Relays pole vault competition since claiming his first title in 2002, and added victories in ‘08 (18-4.75) and ’09 (18-7.25) before finishing second a year ago (18-1.25). A top-five pole-vaulter in the world each of the past three years and six of the last eight, Miles has been America’s top-ranked vaulter since 2008.

“I’m excited we’re going to have Derek here,” Brown said. “We’re going to provide a very unique experience, pairing male and female pole vaulters and use their combined heights so we can have an overall winner.” This is going to be the best Pole Vault in the Mall we’ve had. The first two were great, but this is going to be even better.”

A two-time U.S. Olympian, Miles made his Olympic debut at the 2004 Athens Games with a seventh-place finish (18-10.37), then narrowly missed earning a medal with a fourth-place showing at the 2008 Beijing Olympics (18-8.40).

Miles, who has twice cleared 19-2.5 won his first U.S. outdoor championship at the 2008 Olympic Trials. He tied for second at the 2009 U.S. Outdoor Championships and claimed fourth at the 2010 World Indoor Championships.
Miles won his first U.S. title at the 2003 Indoor Championships and was the top finisher at the World Outdoor Championships later that summer en route to his first Olympic team in 2004.

“It’s been one of my favorite events,” Miles said of the Drake Relays. “I have been coming here ever since I was in college at South Dakota. About my junior year I actually got a chance to go in the college division and I have been coming to the relays for almost 15 years. It’s close to where I live in South Dakota but not only that, it’s awesome seeing so many people coming out to see the track event. The Drake Relays has been always a great event.”

The 102nd Drake Relays features a week-long festival of events, including the second annual running of the Wellmark Grand Blue Mile on Grand Avenue in downtown Des Moines on Tuesday, April 26. The race is open to all participants. Registration can be completed online by visiting www.GrandBlueMile.com.

The “Pole Vault in the Mall” presented by Hy-Vee at Jordan Creek Town Center returns this year for the third time, and first since 2009. It is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday, April 27. This year’s event will feature a new twist that will bring women’s competitors into the event for the first time as part of a team competition. One men’s and one women’s entrant will be paired up to form five teams competing for the title based on best combined finishing place.

“I like jumping indoors,” Miles said. “You have lots of people close to you and the energy level is high, especially in the mall as it’s so tight and a lot of people are around you. At the same time, when you get outdoors, if you get a nice Iowa tail-wind you can get up pretty high.”

Tickets for the 2011 Drake Relays are on sale now, and may be purchased online through the official Drake Athletics website (www.GoDrakeBulldogs.com) or by calling (515) 271-DOGS (3647).

Capsules on Special Invitational Participants Announced Today:

Jeremy Wariner—400 meters

Age: 27 | Hometown: Irving, Texas

Three-time Olympic gold medalist (400 meters, 2008; 4x400 relay, 2004 & ’08). Reigning No. 1 400-meter runner in the world (44.13), posting three of top four times in world in 2010. Drake Relays 400-meter champion (45.06) in 2009. Maintained world No. 1 ranking 2004-07; was No. 2 in ’08 and ’09. Made Olympic debut in 2004 in Athens, winning gold in the 400 and with U.S. 4x400 relay team. Earned silver medal in 2008 Beijing Olympics 400 meter run and another gold medal in 4x400 relay. Personal-best time of 43.45 (Aug. 31, 2007; Osaka, Japan) is third-fastest 400-meter time in history. Won 400 meters at 2005 and ’07 World Championships; finished second in 2009. Part of gold-medal-winning U.S. 4x400 relay team at 2005 and ’07 World Championships Returns for fifth Drake Relays, dating back to his collegiate years at Baylor. 2004 NCAA Indoor and Outdoor 400-meter champion.

Derek Miles—Pole Vault

Age: 38 | Hometown: Tea, S.D.

Maintained top-five world ranking each of past three years, and six of last eight. Two-Time U.S. Olympian—finished 4th in pole vault at 2008 Beijing Games and 7th in 2004 at Athens. Finished 4th at 2010 World Indoor Championships. Drake Relays Special Invitational pole vault champion in 2002, ’08 and ’09. Personal-best mark of 19-2.5 came in 2008 in Berlin, Germany. Won first U.S. outdoor championship at 2008 Olympic Trials, and finished second at ’09 U.S. Outdoor Championships.

Becky Breisch set the Terry & Linda Fuller throws field record 4/1/11

LUBBOCK, Texas - Becky Breisch and Texas Tech strength and conditioning coach Jason Young won the Elite Discus Throw Exhibition this afternoon at the Terry & Linda Fuller throws field.

Breisch, who throws for Nike, won the competition with a facility record of 207'-9" (63.33M). The throw is the top American throw of the season and currently third in the world rankings.

Aretha Thurmond (Nike) was second that vaults her into the fourth spot in the world with a throw of 207'-4" (63.19M). Stephanie Brown-Trafton (Nike) finished in third with a mark of 194'-3" (59.21M).

Texas Tech's Ifeatu Okafor placed seventh in the field throwing 162'-11" (49.66M).

In the men's competition Jason Young, a strength and conditioning coach for Texas Tech, had to hold off Red Raider Julian Wruck to win the event.

Wruck took the lead on his very first throw of the competition with a personal-best throw of 203'-00" (61.88M). Young stayed close but waited until his last throw to win the competition. Young threw a 203'-4" (61.99M) which is the top throw in the United States and 14th on the world rankings.

Wruck's throw improves on his NCAA leading and season best throw.

Adam Kuehl placed third with a throw of 198'-1" (60.38M) with Ian Waltz of the NY Athletic Club in fourth with a mark of 197'-11" (60.34M).


Local Olympic silver medal winner returns to encourage fitness

Published: Tuesday, March 29, 2011, 3:42 P

 MARY KLAUS, The Patriot-News 

An Olympic silver medal winner who grew up in Swatara Twp. returned to the midstate on Tuesday to promote the 30th annual Keystone State Games Festival of Sports in Hershey and Harrisburg from July 26-31.

Hyleas Fountain, formerly of Swatara Twp. and now of Dayton, Ohio, said that area people should start training for the games held to promote physical fitness.

"People don’t exercise enough," said Fountain, 30, whose lean and muscular build proved that she does. "Working out and eating healthy prolongs your life and gives you energy. Anyone can compete in the Keystone Games. There’s lots of events."

The Keystone State Summer Games, a sports festival modeled after the Olympics, offers about 30 sports ranging from archery to wrestling. Billed as Pennsylvania’ largest amateur sports festival, the games promote physical fitness as a health improvement and disease prevention strategy.

Fountain in 2008 won the silver medal in the Olympics heptathlon in Beijing. Now, she’s training for the 2012 Olympics.

© 2011 PennLive.com. All rights reserved.

3/28:  Lanaro, Johnson, Miles to Vault in Des Moines Mall


The popular "Pole Vault in the Mall" presented by Hy-Vee at Jordan Creek Town Center returns this year for the third time, and first since 2009. It is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday, April 27. This year's event will feature a new twist that will bring women's competitors into the event for the first time as part of a team competition. While the men will still compete for an individual title, a men's and women's entrant will be paired up to compete for a team title based on best combined finishing place. 

Olympians Derek Miles and Giovanni Lanaro will join World Silver Medalist, Chelsea Johnson at Jordan Creek Mall.

26 February- Wesley Korir will brace the upcoming issue of Marathon & Beyond


Cover boy, Wesley Korir
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2011 March/April Issue: Marathon & Beyond

Derek Miles, News clip

World Champ, Samuels to challenge U.S. Champ, Breisch in Sydney

February 16- World discus champion Dani Samuels will have a world class rival at next month's Sydney Track Classic, with USA champion Becky Briesch today confirming her intention to compete.

Briesch, who is a three-time world championships representative (2005, 2007, 2009) won the US title last year and recorded the fourth longest throw in the world last year at 66.52 metres.

With Briesch's personal best sitting in excess of Samuels' at 67.37m, Samuels will have extra motivation in front of her home crowd to improve on the personal best of 65.84m set at last year's Sydney Track Classic.

"Competing in my home town and across the Australian domestic season is always a thrill and it will be great to face some strong competition in Becky this year as I start my build up to the world championships in Daegu,” Samuels said.

"My record in terms of wins domestically has been great, so fingers crossed I can hold off her challenge and perform strongly on the night.”

Samuels has competed twice so far this year, recording wins at the Hunter Track Classic and Brisbane Athletics Classic. Despite not yet recording throws in excess of 60 metres, Samuels is confident that the extra strength she has developed through off season training will translate into longer throws as she readjusts her technique.

“The last two year's I've opened up with throws over 60m. I feel really strong and powerful, but it just isn't going into the discus at this time,” Samuels said after her win in Brisbane over the weekend.

“It's just about getting consistent, getting into competition and plugging away.”

For her part, Briesch is looking forward to coming to Australia and facing Samuels again in competition.

“I’m extremely excited about coming to such a beautiful and welcoming country,” Briesch said.

“Dani is a great competitor and I expect nothing less than a great competition.”

The Sydney Track Classic is being held at the Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre from 6pm on Saturday, 19 March. Tickets are available via www.sydneytrackclassic.com or 9746 1122.

8 February: Torrence, Runner up in Lievin 800 meters



Meeting Pas De Calais 800 meters



1 Richard Kiplagat    1:46.99


2 David Torrence      1:48.10


3  Jackson Kivuva    1:48.18



David Torrence finished 3rd place in his Millrose Wannamaker debut

104th Wannamaker  Mile, New York


28 January


1.Deresse Mekonnen ETH 3:58.58 

2.Bernard Lagat USA 3:59.01 

3.David Torrence USA 4:00.13 

23 January: Korir Three-peat at Carlsbad Half Marathon

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12/30    Fountain, Miles,Breisch rank #1 USA by Track & Field News

Olympic Silver Medalist, Hyleas Fountain ranked #1 in 2010 in the heptathlon and #2 in the long jump. Olympic finalist, Derek Miles finish the year with the honor of being ranked #1 in the pole vault. #2 All-Time U.S. discus thrower, Becky Breisch was the 2010 U.S. discus champion and ended the year ranked top.


 David Torrence ranked 5th and 6th in 800/1500 meters. He ran a personal best of 1:45.1 in Monaco at 800 meters. World finalist, Michelle Carter ranked 2nd in the shot put. 2009 World Silver Medalist, Chelsea Johnson had an abbreviated season, yet manage to rank #3.






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2010 BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON: TOP MEN


1       Wanjiru, Sammy (KEN) …02:06:24
2       Kebede, Tsegaye (ETH) …02:06:43
3       Lilesa, Feyisa (ETH) …02:08:10
4       Korir, Wesley (KEN) …02:08:44
5       Kipruto, Vincent (ETH) …02:09:08
6       Cheruiyot, Robert Kiprono (KEN) …02:09:28
7       Moiben, Laban (KEN) …02:10:48
8       Hartmann, Jason (USA) …02:11:06
9       Harroufi, Ridouane (MAR) …02:13:01
10     Sayenko, Mike (USA) …02:14:27


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10-10-10 Wesley Korir and Sammy Wanjiru

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Hooker, Lavillenie and Miles go 1,2,3 in Continental Cup vault


Split- Representing Team Americas Derek Miles secured third place with a 5.75 clearance as European silver medallist Maksym Mazuryk had to be content with fourth at 5.65m. Olympic Champion, Steve Hooker won the event in a world leading vault of 5.95. Renaud Lavillenie was second place with a first attempt clearance of 5.90.



Head to Heads-Heptathlon

2 September 2010


One of the bonuses to come from the Diamond League is the revival of the concept so attractive to the public, that of head-to-head clashes; once the prerogative of distance running (Seb Coe vs Steve Ovett) and of sprinting (Carl Lewis vs the notorious Ben Johnson) the League has enabled it to spread over a full range of events and meetings. Most importantly it makes for great television.


In Daegu next August and in London in 2012 a real humdinger is in prospect. No it’s not Bolt vs Powell vs Gay, juicy to the cognoscenti though that might be; its Ennis vs Dobrynska vs Hyleas Fountain, the girl born in Columbus, Georgia and the silver medallist at the Beijing Olympics. World champion vs Olympic champion vs Olympic silver medallist. It’s enough to make you salivate. And, lurking in the shadows are the records of the great Jackie Joyner Kersee and Carolina Kluft, two of the three women in history to exceed 7000 points (the other, in case you’re asking, is Larisa Nikitina).



Just the thought of it raises memories of those great tussles at decathlon between Jürgen Hingsen and Daley Thompson. Eleven times they met, eleven times Thompson won. At the Seoul Olympics the German finally had chance of revenge. Daley was severely injured and sheer bloody mindedness took him through the contest (he finished fourth a few points outside the medals). But Jürgen was in great shape; the problem was he created three false starts in the 100 metres and was disqualified. I watched from a high vantage point as he ran around the Olympic stadium like a headless chicken pleading to no avail with anyone he could find (including the great Primo). He never competed internationally again. Neither did Daley. Both the gladiators downed their weapons but honours had been far from even despite the fact that Hingsen had set three world records during the period of their rivalry.


All three of the top women in the Heptathlon are on top of their game and just 88 points separates their best performances set this year. A look at their potential (best performances in each event) shows a difference of just 47 points (with Dobrynska leading and all three over 7000 points). These are infinitesimal margins. None of the three can be written off; no one is a certainty to win.


We in Europe know about Ennis and Dobrynska for they dominated the television screens of athletics enthusiasts for two days but what of Hyleas Fountain? The 29 year old American champion has an impressive record. She joined a club at seven years of age (Denise Lewis had to wait till she was nine). They didn’t do multi events at Central Dauphin East High School in Pennsylvania so her first heptathlon success came when she was 20 and she won the first of her five NCAA titles. Her breakthrough came in 2004 when she finished fourth in the Olympic Trials. A year later she won the US outdoor title, a feat she was to repeat in 2007 and 2008 (Olympic Trials). In 2010 she finished fourth (behind Ennis) at the World Indoor in Doha. Coached by Lynn Smith and represented by Karen Locke she is part of an all-woman team that will be striving for double gold in the next two years.


It is intriguing that the strengths of the three athletes are spread over different events. Ennis will undoubtedly lead after the opening 100 metres hurdles and despite some strong shot putting by Dobrynska may well be ahead after the first day. Both the American and the Ukrainian come into their own on the second day. Fountain has the best long jump with 6.89m; Dobrynska leads the trio with 49.25m in the javelin; Ennis could clinch the titles with the fastest 800 metres. It is anybody’s game.



Tension will be in the air at 10am (7pm GMT) on 29 August 2011 when the heptathletes go to their marks for the opening event, sending us into two days of intense, riveting drama. Watch it.


Reiti-29 August- David Torrence ran a personal best today of 3:34.25 to finish 8th place in the Reiti Grand Prix 1500 meters. He improved from 3:35.8 previous best ran in June at New York DL.

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24 August, Lille- Derek Miles finished third place in the pole vault with a leap of  5.62 meters. The event was won by Frenchman, Renaud Lavillenie with a clearance of 5.72. David Torrence finished 6th in the 1500 meters with a time of 3:36.72. His second best time in 2010.

22 August, Giovanni Lanaro finished third place in  pole vault during his first appearance in Berlin, Olympic stadium, while competing at ISTAF meeting. He cleared 5.61 (18 feet 4 3/4 inches). Derek Miles finished fourth place.

15 August- Miles & Fountain finish solid in Crystal Palace

London- 2008 U. S. Olympic team members, Derek Miles and Hyleas Fountain finished respectable in the London Diamond League at Crystal Palace. Miles cleared 5.61 on a first attempt to finish second place in the pole vault. Fountain came third in the long jump.

10 Aug- Breisch and Carter win in Goteborg Throws

Goteborg-  Jill Camarena led the shot put competition in with a throw of 62 feet. During the fifth round, Olympic and World finalist, Michelle Carter took the lead with a throw of 18.80 (62 feet 1inch) to win. It becomes a season best for her.

8 August


Luzern- Olympic Silver Medalist, Hyleas Fountain took the long jump lead tonight with a leap of 6.89. World long jump champion, Brittney Reese answer round six with a leap on 6.95 to win. David Torrence won the men's 3000 meter race in 7:54.61 over Dan Huling. 


5 Aug- Breisch, Lanaro and Miles for Team Americas at Continental Cup

 2010 Central America and Carribean pole vault  Champion, Giovanni Lanaro  joins Two-Time, Olympic finalist, Derek Miles to represent the Americas team at the upcoming Continental Cup in Split, Croatia on September 3-4. Miles cleared 5.82m on 21 August in Jockgrim, Germany and finished second place in the Paris Diamond League pole vault. Lanaro has a best of 5.75 this year.




Becky Breisch has been the 2010 top U.S. discus thrower. She had a recent performance of 66.52m  and is the overall third best performer ever in American history. Below is Continental Cup information link:


IAAF Continental Cup

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27 July: Meeting Record for Lanaro


Mayaquez- Mexican Record Holder, Giovanni Lanaro set a competition record by clearing 5.60 meters (18 feet 4 1/4 inches )  to win the 2010 Central American Carribean Games. He took good attempts at 19 ft 1/4 inch, 5.80m.

23 July: 66.52 Discus toss by Breisch, longest U.S. in three years

22 July -Monaco- Torrence improves 800 meters to 1:45.15 while competing in the Monaco Diamond League event. Michelle Carter finished 5th with a throw of 18.70 in the shot put.

Chula Vista- U.S. Discus Champion, Becky Breisch had a throw of 64.63 in her series. However, finished the day with a best of 66.52. It is the longest throw by an American woman since 2007.

21 July:  Miles wins again in Jockgrim, New U.S. Leading mark!

Jockgrim, Germany- Olympic Finalist, Derek Miles was the winner today in the Jockgrim, pole vault meeting. He cleared 5.81 meters to win. Miles, also finished second place last Friday in the Paris Golden League with a mark of 5.70 meters. His previous 2010 best was 5.80. He now has the two best U.S. leading marks for the year.

18 July- Rising star, David Torrence completed a successful week, racing double. He was the winner of the 1500 meters in Karlstad, Sweden with a time of 3:37.73 last Thursday. Today he came second place at the Lignano, 800 meters in 1:45.97.



15 July- Karlstad, Sweden



David Torrence    USA                    3:37.73



Cornelius Ndiwa   Kenya                 3:38.39



Tshamano Setone    South Africa     3:39.0

Lausanne- U.S. Discus Champion, Becky Breisch threw a season best and American leading mark of ( 216 feet today to finish second place in the Diamond League stop of Athletissima, Lausanne meeting in Switzerland.


8 July  -Discus
1. Yarelis Barrios       Cuba                     65.92 
2. Becky Breisch    United States            64.53
3. Dani Samuels, Australia                       62.05
4. Zaneta Glanc, Poland                          61.53
5. Nadine Mueller, Germany                    61.14 
6. Aretha  Thurmond, United States         60.77


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Track and Field Nationals: Breisch wins discus title

Life more than track for national champ

By AL LESAR 





Life isn't just about track and field anymore.


Becky Breisch has found balance.


In the process, the 27-year-old Edwardsburg High School graduate has had her performance in the discus circle dramatically improve.


The improvement came to a head Sunday when Breisch won an outdoor national championship with a heave of 207 feet, 10 inches (63.34 meters, 12th best in the world).


"I started off shaky," Breisch said via telephone after the victory.A disappointing early toss of about 53 meters, at one time earlier in her distinguished career, would have shaken Breisch.


"I had to sit down and collect myself," Breisch said. "For me, the biggest challenge is the mental part."


The University of Nebraska grad, who has finished fourth (just out of a qualifying spot) in the last two Olympic Trials, credited her association with the U.S. Olympic Training Center near San Diego as being a reason for her newfound outlook.


Extensive work over the last three years with coach Ty Sevin, and the Center's sports psychologist, has put her at ease.


"I've learned to believe in what I'm doing," said Breisch. "We broke my form down and built it back up again. It's allowed me to be more consistent."That newfound confidence has parlayed into Sunday's title and a recent throw among the top 10 in the world. Her 211-3 that she recorded in April is ranked No. 8.


Still, there's more to it than just flinging a two-pound, three-ounce disc.


"I don't want to be perceived wrong, but it just can't be track and field all the time," Breisch said. "It won't work if you make track your entire life. You have to find balance."


Balance, for Breisch, comes in the form of a guy named Kyle Behnke of San Diego. Her fiancee.


In January, Breisch will add a new chapter to her life when she marries, shortly after the end of her summer season in Europe which will start soon."I'm there -- the house and husband stage," Breisch said. "But (the Olympics in) 2012 is still in my plans."


Long range, a return to southwestern Michigan to teach and coach is on Breisch's wish list.As things stand now, Breisch is on the cusp of greatness, in terms of the world competition.


"In women's discus, you hit your prime in your early 30s," Breisch said. "I'm just starting to hit where I want to be.


"I've been with Ty (Sevin) for three years now. It takes that long to build a relationship. It takes that long to learn to be able to work together. I'm starting to see the continuity pay off."


Continuity, sprinkled with a healthy dose of balance.

26 June : Fountain was spectacular in U.S. Heptathlon Championships

Hyleas Fountain's scored an overall personal best of 6735 in the heptathlon at the 2010 U.S. A. Championships at Drake University. Her effort, though largely contested alone surpasses the 2009 World Championships score by Jessica Ennis.

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25 June- Olympic Silver Medalist, Hyleas Fountain set a  high jump personal best  of 1.90m (6 ft. 2 3/4 inches) while competing in the 2010 U.S. Heptathlon Championship in Des Moines today. She leads the first day substanially.

Korir on the streets of Los Angeles
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Crenshaw & Pico Blvd.

17 June, USA Today- Michelle Carter, Chelsea Johnson

Olympic bloodlines run deep in Carter, Johnson families




By Karen Rosen, Special for USA TODAY

Success is relative for pole vaulter Chelsea Johnson and shot putter Michelle Carter. “It’s kind of funny because among older track fans, they really don’t care about us as much as they care about our dads,” Chelsea said. “They say, ‘Hey, is your dad here?’ ”


Both Jan Johnson, the 1972 Olympic bronze medalist in the pole vault, and Michael Carter, the 1984 silver medalist in the shot put, will be in Des Moines next week to coach their daughters in the U.S. championships.

Chelsea, 26, of Atascadero, Calif., is the 2009 world championships silver medalist who is vying for her first national title after placing second last year.

Michelle, 24, of Dallas, is a two-time defending national champion and 2008 Olympian whose sixth-place finish at the 2009 worlds was the highest by a U.S. woman in 12 years.


Their dads have handed down more than good genes.

“As far as fathers coaching daughters, it’s a give and take,” said Michael, 49, who also coaches daughter D’Andra, an NCAA discus champion. Son Michael Jr. is a thrower, too.


“We have to walk that thin line between a coach and a parent.”

If there’s a disagreement at practice, Michael added, “You have to keep it from carrying over to the house. I tell them when I’m out in the field, I’m coach. Once practice is over and we’re on the way home, now it’s Daddy. They explained to me: That’s hard. They still see me as Dad.”


Michelle says her father was tough because he wanted her to learn to throw correctly. But he knows he can’t be too harsh. “Because I’m going to cry,” she said with a laugh. “Sometimes you just get sensitive and take things the wrong way.”


The Johnsons can’t help bringing the pole vault home with them. Jan, 59, holds camps and clinics in his backyard, where there’s room for two pits.

Chelsea initially resisted the family trade, opting for soccer and then volleyball. She finally picked up a pole her senior year in high school. “I goofed around, ended up jumping 13-6 and then signing with UCLA,” said Chelsea, whose personal best is 15-6¼. “Once I started putting time and energy into it, I did enjoy doing it.”

Jan, who also coached son Clay, said it was better for Chelsea to take up the sport when she was ready. “In the back of my mind, we still had the problem of living up to what Dad did,” he said. “She’s gone beyond my legacy and she’s making her own now, so that’s awesome.”


Michelle had to talk Michael into letting her throw the shot when she was in the seventh grade. “He asked me three times, ‘Are you sure?’ ” she said. “He said, ‘You don’t know what you’re getting yourself into, but if you want to, then we can do it.’ ”

Michael, who played in three Pro Bowls for the San Francisco 49ers, didn’t want to overburden his daughter with expectations. She shrugged off the pressure, setting the high school record of 54-10¾ in 2003 to go along with his still-standing national prep record of 81-3½, set in 1979.

Neither father dangles his Olympic medal in front of his daughter as incentive.

After winning the world silver medal with her father cheering her on, Chelsea said, “I have a whole new respect for what that meant for him and how hard it is to achieve that level.”


Jan maintains that with talent, know-how and the right poles, “You’re going to pole vault high. It doesn’t matter what your last name is.”

But sometimes a father really does know best. In 2008, Chelsea broke her wrist and eventually placed seventh at the Olympic trials. “The most important thing as a parent or even a coach is to try to help them through those bad times,” Jan said. “The good times, anybody can do that.”


more http://www.usatoday.com/sports/olympics/summer/track/2010-06-16-families_N.htm


Jessica Ennis & Hyleas Fountain in New York


New York- (June 12) adidas Multi-event Challenge: 


Hyleas Fountain, the 2008 Olympic silver medalist in the heptathlon, won the adidas multi-event challenge with 2950 points. Jessica Ennis, 2010 World Indoor champion in the pentathlon and 2009 world champion in the heptathlon, was the runner-up with 2925  points. Bettie Wade was third with 2622 points.


Multi-Challenge Standing


1, Fountain, 2,950. 2, Ennis, 2,925. 3, Wade, 2,622. 4, Hill, 2,554. 


Walnut, California (6 June) Mexican record holder, Giovanni Lanaro cleared the fourth best pole vault mark of 2010 to win the Jim Bush Invitational yesterday at Mt. San Antonio College. His mark of 5.75 is only behind, Hooker, Miles and Lavillenie to date this year.

Barber wins Oslo 100 meters

Oslo- 1 June-  Miki Barber was the winner of the Bislett Games 100 meters with a time of 11.17. This marks her best performance since 2007. Her next race is Rome Golden Gala on 10 June.

SACRAMENTO (USA, May 29): California Relays formerly held in Modesto were back this year in Sacramento. Olympic finalist Derek Miles cleared 580 to win over Giovanni Lanaro of Mexico (560). The mark by Miles is second best in the world. Miles missed three times 590. Trevell Quinley achieved in long jump 814 (+1.9). Good female throws by Becky Breisch (64.26, discus) and Amber Campbell 

Floro, Norway- (May 29) Miki Baber finished second place in the 100 meters at the Floro International Meeting. She ran a time of 11.25.

Los Cabos-  22 May, Giovanni Lanaro won the Mexican National Championships with a vault of 5.60.

click link:20 May Derek Miles signs on for California Relays

Chelsea Johnson joins Jenn Suhr in New York Diamond League pole vault

12 May- New York Grand Prix, women's field events will now feature, American Chelsea Johnson joining, Jenn Suhr (née Stuczynski) in the pole vault. Johnson, 26, of Atascadero, Calif., was the 2009 World Championship silver medalist. Johnson's first stop on her tour will first be at Rome, Golden Gala on June 10, where she joins the other Berlin Medalist.


Breisch leading five rounds, settles for second in Osaka Grand Prix discus

8 May, Osaka- American discus leader, Becky Briesch lead for five rounds with a throw of 204-9 (62.40). On her last attempt, World Champion, Australia's Dani Samuels came from behind to win, setting a new meeting record 209-2 (63.75)


Dani Samuels (AUS) 63.75m
Becky Breisch (USA) 62.40m
Zinaida Sendriute (LTU) 58.22m
Stephanie Brown Trafton (USA) 56.65


Korir to throw Ceremonial Pitch for Dodgers

1 May-Kingston: Jamaica International Meeting record holder, Khadevis Robinson defended his 800 meter title by winning again in front of a crowd of 32,000 fans. Olympic and World finalist, Michelle Carter opened her outdoor season with a throw of 18:43 (60ft.-5 inches) to win the Texas Twilight shot put.

24 April- (Des Moines) Becky Breisch came up with her best throw in more than two years – 64.38m - to beat a strong discus field easily at the 2010 Drake Relays. Her victims included Gia Lewis-Smallwood (60.97m), Aretha Thurmond (60.74m), and 2008 Olympic champion Stephanie Brown-Trafton (60.12m). The best men’s discus mark was a 63.14m throw by Jarred Rome.


24 April- In the women’s 4 x 100m relay, a team of Me’Lisa Barber, Allyson Felix, Mikele Barber and Carmelita Jeter defeated Jamaica, 42.74 to 42.94, with Jeter holding off 2008 Olympic champion Shelly Ann Fraser on the final leg.



Lanaro win Mt. SAC Relays in 18 feet 8 1/2 inches


Walnut, CA:  17 April-Giovanni Lanaro leaped 5.70 to win the 2010, Mt. SAC Relays. His next competition will be at the Drake Relays on 23 April, in Des Moines, Iowa.

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FOUNTAIN, LAGAT, ENNIS TO COMPETE IN NEW YORK

NEW YORK (April 1, 2010) — Newly crowned world indoor champions Bernard Lagat of the United States and Jessica Ennis of Great Britain as well as American record-holder Hyleas Fountain will ride the wave of their recent successes when they compete at the adidas Grand Prix on June 12, organizers announced Thursday. The adidas Grand Prix, held at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island, will be the fifth stop on the inaugural 14-meet, international Diamond League circuit.

Lagat joins previously announced sprint king Usain Bolt, the Olympic and World champion at 100 and 200 meters and world record holder in both events, as the featured athletes in their respective events, the 1500 and 100m. The golden girl of British Athletics, Ennis will face-off against Fountain, the Olympic heptathlon silver medalist, in a special multi-event challenge featuring the long jump, shot put, and 100m hurdles. The adidas Grand Prix will be Ennis’ U.S. debut, and it will be Fountain’s first appearance.  

“Winning the world indoor title gives me a load of confidence heading into the summer, and now what a great opportunity it is for the multis to be included within the adidas Grand Prix’s Diamond League structure,” Ennis said. “This meet is known for producing great results, and I’m excited to use the energy and support of the New York City crowd in making my U.S. debut.”  

Lagat, 35, of Tucson, Ariz., captured his second world indoor title in the 3000m at the IAAF World Indoor Championships in Doha in early March, making him the first U.S. champion in the event. The victory brings his career World Championship medal count to eight—four of them gold. A two-time Olympic medalist, Lagat most recently made history in New York, winning his record eighth Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games in Madison Square Garden in January.

Ennis, 24, is dubbed the world’s greatest female athlete after becoming the first British woman to win both indoor and outdoor world titles in 2009 and 2010. She was victorious in the pentathlon in Doha, and just seven months prior, Ennis dominated in similar fashion at the IAAF World Outdoor Championships in Berlin, setting a personal best in becoming the world heptathlon champion. 

Fountain, 29, of Kettering, Ohio, also had a stellar performance in Doha, finishing fourth in the pentathlon and equaling the American record of 4,753 set in 1999 by DeeDee Nathan. It was an encouraging performance for Fountain, who was forced to miss the World Outdoor Championships last summer due to an injury after winning the Olympic silver medal in Beijing a year earlier. 


Korir is the Face of Dodgertown
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Korir repeats in Los Angeles Marathon, 2:09.19


21 March- Wesley Korir, now owns the two of the best three marathon times ever recorded in Los Angeles. He won the marathon today with a time of 2:09.19. Last year in his debut on a different course, he ran 2:08.23




Top Men Finishers

  1. Wesley Korir                          2:09:18
  2. Richard Limo                         2:09:48
  3. Paul Samoei                          2:09:54


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American Indoor Record for Fountain

 Associated Press  - ‎Mar 13, 2010‎

US athlete Hyleas Fountain set a North American record of 4753 in fourth. Ethiopia's Meseret Defar has won her fourth 3000 meter world indoor title in a row ...

 

13 March    Lanaro Wins in Monterey, 5.60



Track) Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico 

Hombres Salto con Garrocha

=========================================================

            Seed    Finales  Puntos

================================================================================

  

  1   GIOVANNI LANARO        EUREKA              5.60m        

  2    JEFF RYAN           EUREKA U.S.A          5.20m       

  3   DORIAN GARCIA      ITESM MONTERREY          5.01   

12 March, Doha- click link below  to IAAF page

Miles qualifies for Doha, World Indoor final

2/27/10    Derek Miles qualifies for World Championships

2004 Olympic Games men's pole vault gold medalist Tim Mack won his second U.S. Indoor title Saturday night with a clearance of 5.70m/18-8.25.

Mack faced a strong challenge from 2003 USA Indoor champion and the fourth-place finisher at the 2008 Olympic Games Derek Miles, who also cleared 5.70m/18-8.25, but was awarded second place due to more misses during the competition.Scott Neidermeyer finished third with a best of 5.60m/18-4.50, with Jeremy Scott placing fourth after clearing the identical height.

click on link -26 February, Korir loves L.A.

Wesley, 2009 L.A. Marathon post race conference

 19 February 

Personal Best and Victory for Chelsea Johnson in Flagstaff

Flagstaff- 2009 Berlin Silver Medalist, Chelsea Johnson continued her 2010 dominance today with another victory at Northern Arizona University, Indoor Tune-Up. Johnson cleared 4.62 for an indoor personal best. 



Event 7  Women Pole Vault

================================================================


  1 Johnson, Chelsae Unattached      4.62m   15-01.75 

  2 Hendry, Kelsie   Unattached      4.55m   14-11.00 

  3 Holliday, Becky  Unattached      4.50m   14-09.00 

  4 Owen, Melinda    Unattached      4.20m   13-09.25 

  5 Gao, Shuying    Unattached       J4.20m   13-09.25 

  6 Carpenter, Cara   Arizona St     3.85m   12-07.50 

  7 Michaud, Jami   Northern Ari     J3.85m   12-07.50 

  



Anwar Moore, winning in 13.09

Anwar Moore, back in form for 2010 debut

Newport News, VA, 5 February- 2008 and 2009 World Top ranked hurdler, Anwar Moore won the 55 meter hurdle race over the weekend. He is rounding into fitness.

Honda to Sponsor 2010 L.A. Marathon

4 February, 2010 WATT VS QUINLEY



SYDNEY (AUS): World championships long jump bronze medalist Mitchell Watt is announced to take on American Trevell Quinley in both the Sydney and Melbourne editions of the Australian Athletics Tour end of month. Watt, who recorded the world’s fifth best performance of 2009, believes bringing in overseas competition could help him break Jai Taurima’s national record. Watt will be pushed as well by fellow Australians Fabrice Lapierre, former world junior champion Chris Noffke, 2009 World University Games finalist Shaun Fletcher and Robbie Crowther. “We’ve got good quality long jump in Australia with Fabrice and myself and having an international athlete out here who’s pretty experienced, the more international athletes we have the further it will push us all along and might get us closer to or past that record,” Watt said. At the end of the 2009 season Australia was ranked second in the world for the men’s long jump event, Watt teaming with Lapierre (8.35m) and Noffke (8.10m) to take up the world’s No. 2 ranking behind the USA. Watt and teammate Noffke have made it clear they want to take the top spot in 2010. 

3 February-Runner's World A Well-Kept-Secret, Hyleas Fountain, World's Greatest

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Video-30 January, World Leading Pentathlon for Fountain

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30 January, Johnson wins Millrose Games Vault

Chelsea Johnson class of the vault

Chelsea Johnson, the 2009 World Championships silver medallist in the women's Pole Vault, capitalized on the absence of American record-holder and 2009 Millrose winner Jenn Suhr in New York much as she did in Berlin. Johnson won the women's Pole Vault with a 4.51m clearance and raised the bar to 4.65m, where she had "two good attempts," she said. Johnson opened at 4.31m and advanced through 4.41m and 4.51m without a miss. Becky Holliday was the only other vaulter to clear 4.41m.
"I felt fast and prepared to jump high," Johnson said.


Hyleas Fountain, Michelle Carter Ad

25 January, 2010- Korir repeat Carlsbad Victory

22 January-Korir defends Carlsbad Half Marathon title on Sunday

Johnson and Miles to Vault at Millrose

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21 January-Johnson and Miles to compete at Millrose

21 January-Miles Opens on Saturday in South Dakota

16 January, 2010- Fountain Shines in Kent State Indoor


Kent, Ohio-Olympic Silver Medalist, Hyleas Fountain competing in her first indoor competition today at the Doug Raymond Invitational won both the 60 hurdles and high jump. Fountain, cleared 1.83 for an indoor personal best. She was a winner also in the hurdles with a time of 8.16.


She plans to compete in a pentathlon on 29 January to earn a berth for Doha. Fountain is right on schedule to challenge.



Athletes rank Top 10 in World. Miles & Carter #1 USA

1 January, 2010- Derek Miles and Michelle Carter ranked USA #1 by Track and Field News. Michelle Perry was beset by injury but held on to rank in top 10 despite missing second half of season. She ranks World #8. Chelsea Johnson makes her first appearance in 2009 World rankings. She ranks World #9 and won a Silver Medal in 2009 Berlin Championships

10 December, 2009: The race of distance runner Wesley Korir's life

15 November Video:Two-Stepping with Michelle Perry

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10/13-Marathon man Wesley Korir on tuna subs and Chuck Norris

Miles finishes second in World Athletic Final Vault

Thessloniki-Two-Time Olympian, Derek Miles finished 2nd place in the final edition of the IAAF World Athletic Final. Miles won the 2008 edition of the final after placing 4th in the Beijing Olympics.

9/9/09 Fountain, Miles, Johnson win at DecaNation Meeting

Paris- Berlin Silver Medalist, Chelsea Johnson competed as a guest in the Charlety Stadium competition. She was the winner with a leap of 4.55 in the pole vault. USA's Derek Miles sprung something of a surprise in the Pole Vault with a clearance of 5.70m to beat France's Romain Mesnil and Renaud Lavillenie, who claimed silver and bronze respectively at the recent worlds. Mesnil claimed second place Wednesday with 5.60m. Beijing Silver Medalist won the long jump with 6.80. Russia's women scored a Pole Vault win through Tatyana Polnova (4.55m). World medalist Chelsea Johnson also cleared 4.55m and had a better series attempts than the Russian, but was competing out of competition.  

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Chelsea Johnson of the United States celebrates after taking the silver medal in the final of the Women's Pole Vault during the World Athletics Championships in Berlin on Monday, Aug. 17, 2009. 

Personal best for Michelle Carter in Stockholm

30 July- 2008 Olympian Michelle Carter finished second place with a throw of 19.13 in the DN Galan Shot Put competition. She moves to #9 All-Time USA list.

Miles and Johnson win German Vault competition

12 July- Derek Miles was the winner of the men'USA-pole win in Jockgrim Jockgrim (AP) - Derek Miles and Chelsea Johnson from the USA, the 15th International Pole Vault Meeting in Jockgrim / Palatine won. When the men walked over 3,000 spectators to the Olympic Games Fourth Miles is the only 5.72 meters. Second was the World Cup third-Danny Ecker (5.60). The Leverkusen was not due to an injury for the World Championships in Athletics, 15 to 23 August in Berlin qualify, but celebrated a successful comeback at the same height Jeremy Scott (USA) and Tim LOBINGER (Munich).

Fountain leaps to Long Jump personal Best in Switzerland

Lucerne Spitzen Leichtathletik Results



Long Jump


1, Hyleas Fountain, United States, 6.89. 2, Funmi Jimoh, United States, 6.65. 3, Brianna Glenn, United States, 6.64. 4, Karin Ruckstuhl, Netherlands, 6.45. 5, Jana Veldakova, Slovakia, 6.42. 6, Grace Upshaw, United States, 6.37. 7, Jacinta Boyd, Australia, 6.30. 8, Anna Nazarova, Russia, 6.29.

Carter puts third in Europe debut. Johnson also third at IAAF Athens Grand Prix

Athens- 2008 Olympic Games finalist, Michelle Carter finished third at the Athens Grand Prix with a mark of 18.16 (59.7). Also third was Chelsea Johnson in the pole vault with a first attempt clearance of 4.48.

Toby Stevenson returns! Miles, Walker, Scott to Berlin

27-28 June

Eugene-Olympic Silver Medalist, Toby Stevenson cleared 5.75 to qualify for the 2009 World Championships in the pole vault. He along with teammates, Brad Walker, Derek Miles and Jeremy Scott cleared the same height. Walker was declared the winner with Miles finishing second place. All qualified for the World Championships.


NCAA record holder, Chelsea Johnson finished second with a first attempt clearance at 4.60 (15-1) and qualified for Berlin. Jenn Stuczynski won the event with 4.63 (15-3). They are joined by Stacy Dragila.


1. Brad Walker 5.75

2. Derek Miles 5.75

3. Jeremy Scott 5.75

4. Toby Stevenson 5.75

5. Mark Hollis 5.70

6. Jason Colwick 5.65

7. Jeff Ryan 5.55

8. (tie) Daniel Ryland and Scott Roth 5.55

10. Tim Mack 5.55


Olympian, Michelle Carter wins USA Shot Put

June 27, 2009


Eugene- 2008 Olympic Games Finalist, Michelle Carter won the shot put tonight and captured the 2009  U.S. Championships to earn a berth on the World Championships Team. Carter, 23 years old, made her first Olympic Team as an elite athlete, winning the women's shot put with a personal-best and U.S.-leading mark of 18.85m/61-10.25 at the 2008 Olympic Trials. In becoming an Olympian, she followed in the footsteps of her father, 1984 Olympic shot put silver medalist and boys' high school record holder Michael Carter...Carter collected her first NCAA shot put title at the 2006 NCAA Indoor Champs, winning the event with a then personal-best toss and UT record of 18.56m.

 

Results


1 Michelle Carter              Nike                    18.03m   59-02.00

      16.83m  17.82m  17.84m  18.03m  17.94m  17.84m                     

  2 Jillian Camarena             N Y A C                 17.94m   58-10.25

      FOUL  17.94m  FOUL  16.95m  17.52m  17.37m                         

  3 Kristin Heaston              Nike                    17.88m   58-08.00

      17.38m  17.88m  FOUL  17.41m  17.26m  17.38m                       

  4 Jessica Pressley             unattached              17.81m   58-05.25


Briesch Qualifies for World Championships

June 26, 2009 ====================================================== Finals 1 Stephanie Brown Trafton Nike 64.25m 210-09 2 Aretha Thurmond Nike 62.51m 205-01 3 Rebecca Breisch Nike 62.08m 203-08 4 Summer Pierson unattached 60.88m 199-09 5 Suzy Powell-Roos Asics 60.29m 197-10

Khadevis and Chelsea win in Toronto

Toronto- 11 June- Rainy conditions marred the pole vault. Chelsea Johnson managed to with with a leap of 4.35. Khadevis Robinson won the 800 meters with a time of 1:45.73

10 June- Perry wins in Poland

Bydoszcz- Michelle Perry had an impressive win at the 2009 Enea Cup in Bydoszcz. The 100 hurdles were contested in a headwind. Lucina Golding-Clark finished second place.

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World Champion, Perry wins Prefontaine and Briesch, Third

Eugene- 100 meter hurdle champion, Michelle Perry was the winner of the Prefontaine Classic. Becky Breisch finished third in the discus throw.

Khadevis Robinson and Michelle Carter win New York Grand Prix

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30 May

New York-Olympic Finalist, Michelle Carter won her first IAAF Grand Prix Shot Put Event. Four- Time, USA 800 meter champion, Khadevis Robinson won his event for the third time.

Wesley Korir Wins LA Marthon in 2:08.23, Record Time

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(link IAAF- Mt. Sac, Johnson, Jeter World Leaders

Chelsea Johnson, U.S. leading Mark at SLO


SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. -- Atascadero product Chelsea Johnson, competing for Nike won the women's pole vault with a 14-10  (4.52) clearance and a U.S. leading mark for 2009

(link) A pleasure cruise- Khadevis Robinson

Khadevis defends ,Wins 4th USA Indoor Title, PB for Fountain

Boston-  1 March-  His indoor victories expand over two decades. Khadevis Robinson, won his first USA Indoor Championship after graduating from TCU back in 1999. Today's  victory at the Reggie Lewis Center makes four Indoor titles and eight overall. Hyleas Fountain finished second in both 60 hurdles and long jump. She ran 7.98 to set a personal best.



Final

1 Khadevis Robinson  Nike          1:48.61

2 Mark Wieczorek  OTC/Nike       1:48.94

3 Matt Scherer   OTC/Nike            1:49.36

4 Karjuan Williams                         1:49.47

5 Christian Smith   Nike                 1:49.54

6 Steve Sherer      New York AC 1:49.8



Finals  60 H

  1 Lolo Jones                      Asics                        7.84 

  2 Hyleas Fountain              Nike                        7.98 

  3 Shantia Moss                 Unattached             8.15

  4 Gi-Gi Johnson                Nike                          8.17 

  5 Lauren Smith                 Unattached              8.31

 




   Finals wLJ


  1 Brittney Reese                Nike                       6.71m   22-00.25

     

  2 Hyleas Fountain              Nike                     6.66m   21-10.25

     

  3 Akiba McKinney               Nike                     6.59m   21-07.50

    

  4 Tianna Madison               Nike                     6.43m   21-01.25

     

  5 Funmi Jimoh                    Nike                      6.39m   20-11.75

     

  



Heavy Rain for Briesch outdoor debut in New Zealand, Finishes second


20 Feb Auckland- Beatrice Faumuina of New Zealand won the Discus Throw, throwing a creditable 58.13m. Becky Breisch from the USA finished with 57.43m for second, with the lead in the competition changing hands several times. The second American, Aretha Thurmond, threw 54.57m for third.



Lanaro Leaps to 5.71, 2009 Season's Best Indoors

Stockholm- Steve Hooker won the GE Galan pole vault. National record was achieved by Sweden's Jeng. Giovanni Lanaro equalled his own Mexican Record with a clearance of 5.71 tonight.




1 Steven Hooker          AUS 5.86 

2 Pavel Gerasimov       RUS 5.81 PB

3 Alhaji Jeng                SWE 5.81 NR

4 Giovanni Lanaro       MEX 5.71 =NR

5 Derek Miles              USA 5.71 

6 Steven Lewis            GBR 5.61 

7 Paul Burgess             AUS 5.51 

Yevgeniy Lukyanenko  RUS x 

Pole Vault Stars Meeting, Donetsk, February 15 

Miles finishes Third


YELENA ISINBAYEVA had a superlative seasonal opener as she broke her own world record in Donetsk for the sixth successive year. Not only did the Olympic, world and European champion set her 25th world record of 4.97m, the legendary Russian decided to increase the bar to 5.00m, which was her 26th world record in a truly illustrious career.

Isinbayeva, who delayed her debut to the indoor season because of illness has decided to miss the European Indoor Championships, but still intends to compete at the Aviva Birmingham Indoor Grand Prix on Saturday, and the Prague International on February 26.

In the men’s event, Steve Hooker continued his immaculate season with his fourth successive win of 2009. Understandably tired after clearing 6.01m in New York, 6.06m in Boston and 6m in Paris only 48-hours earlier, Hooker jumped sparingly but a 5.92m clearance was good enough to seal the victory ahead of Yevgeniy Lukyanenko and Derek Miles. 

Fountain, A role Model for Children- Honored for work (link)

Millrose Games-  Hooker ! Hooker! Hooker!


New York- Olympic Champion, Steven Hooker cleared 6.01 on a first attempt. Derek Miles and Giovanni Lanaro were second and third place.

Korir runs Personal Best to Win Carlsbad Half Marathon


 1/25/09- Wesley Korir ran a wire to wire time of 1:02.45 to win the 2009 Carlsbad Half Marathon.

 1 Wesley Korir Oakland, CA       1:02:45
 2 Sergio Reyes Palmdale, CA    1:04:17
 3 Wesley Ochoro Santa Fe, NM 1:04:52
 4 Joseph Ekuom Bronx, NY       1:06:28


1/24/09-    Derek Miles debut  2009 with World Lead in Pole Vault, 5.82

VERMILLION, S.D. -- U. S. Champion, Derek Miles opened his season today, Saturday,  24 Jan.  at the Graphic Edge Alumni Open in the Dakota Dome. He made first attempt clearances at 5.60 (18-4 1/2) and 5.70  (18-8 1/4). He became  the 2009 World indoor leader with a final attempt clearance of 5.82. 

Miles competes next at the Millrose Games.

Chelsea Johnson tops Brazilian, Murer to win PV Summit

Jan. 3- IAAF story, Pole Vault Summit (by Kirby Lee)

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Miles Selected As States Celebrity Of The Year

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Discus star, Becky Breisch has joined Elite Athletes Network. She has a personal best of 67.37 and is the #2 U.S. All-Time. She was an 8-Time All American at Nebraska in shot and discus. Breisch is the 2005 USA Champion.

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*Khadevis Robinson interview

*Podcast: Hyleas Fountain- Trackshark

18 December, IAAF Story: Hyleas Fountain

*If it aint broke dont fix it is Fountains training motto after superb 2008

Fountain and Miles Awarded 2008 Top U.S. Field Performers 


Reno- Olympic Silver Medalist, Hyleas Fountain received the High Performance Field Athlete of the Year award for 2008. Olympic Trials Champion and World Final Pole Vault Champion, Derek Miles was awarded the Jim Thorpe Award for outstanding male athlete in field events. Notably, Miles improved his personal best to 5.85 and Fountain had a long jump best of 6.88 and became only the second woman in American history to win a heptathlon Olympic medal.

*11/3/08: Toby Stevenson talks fast bikes

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University of Louisville, All- American Wesley Korir joined Elite Athletes Network and will be represented by Karen Locke. Korir is a native of Eldoret, Kenya. Earlier this month while testing his fitness, he finished the Chicago Marathon in an astonishing debut with a time of 2:13.53 to record the fourth best time of the day, while winning the citizen's race. Wesley began his race 5 minutes behind the elite field and caught and passed most of them.

2008 IAAF World Final video- Miles 5.80 victory

*Steve Landells interviews U.S. Champion, Miles for Spikes magazine

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Miles wins Special Berlin pole vault in a personal best Brandenburg Gate

 Berlin (AP) American pole vault champion, Derek Miles was the winner of the pole vault extraordinary meeting before Berlin's most famous landmark won. Beijing fourth placer cleared a personal best by three centimeters today of 5.85 to kickoff 2009 World Athletic Championships ticket sales campaign. 5000 spectators were on hand. Uzbekistan, Leonid Andreev was second with the same mark 5.55 as Jeff Hartwig (USA) with fewer misses. Best German was Lars Börgeling (Leverkusen) in 5,40 in fourth place. This even served as an advertisement for the 2009 in Berlin held Athletics World Championships. Association president Clemens Prokop announced that more than 150 000 tickets for the World Cup at the Olympic Stadium have been sold.
   
Derek Miles 5.85 
Leonid Andreev 5.55
Jeff Hartwig 5.55
Lars Borgeling 5.40

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Fountain wins Combined events Challenge

 HEPTATHLON 

Talence- In the women’s event the top-3 from Beijing were also ranked in this year’s challenge at the top. Only in terms of the season long Challenge, the Olympic champion Natalya Dobrynska (3rd 19,430pts), had to give way to Hyleas Fountain (1st 19,759pts) and Natalya Chernova (2nd 19,575pts). 

After the decision of Carolina Klüft to not continue with Heptahlon in Olympic year a big struggle developed in the women’s Heptathlon to take over her crown. Already end of May in Götzis, where traditionally the whole international combined events top participates, 22 athletes had passed the 6000 points barrier. A mark that before only was equaled once in history of the Heptathlon. Also in Beijing, 21 athletes passed this mark. With the 11 athletes who did this again in Talence the total of 6000+ points scores is over 100. The highest number of such performances in a year since 1994.



Before the meeting in Talence the ranking was topped by the German athletes Lilian Schwarzkopf and Jennifer Oeser, who both decided to finish the season after the Olympic Games.

 A number of athletes needed the meeting in Talence to qualify for the 3rd. result. This was including all medallists in Beijing. An interesting competition between these 3 competitors followed, together with the British Kelly Sotherton, however she could not qualify as she had only previously completed one meeting in the series. 

With Hyleas Fountain as the winner in Talence also the winner of the challenge was known. Her total score of 19,75 points she got by winning the Olympic trials in Eugene.


USA Olympic silver medallist Hyleas Fountain improved on her Long Jump and 800m performances from Beijing to win with 6473 points (her marks: 12.90 - 1.85 - 12.10 - 23.55 - 6.52 - 41.62 - 2:15.32).

*NY Times: Perfect Weather for a Heptathlete

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Michael Robertson, 2007 Pan Am Discus Champion

Contact: Karen Locke
email: EliteNet@AOLcom

Twitter: @klocke1