USATF Foundation awards Elite Athlete Development Grants to 8 athletes

INDINAPOLIS - The USA Track & Field Foundation has presented Elite Athlete Development Grants to eight athletes, Foundation Executive Director Tom Jackovic and Chairman, Bob Greifeld, announced today.

Athletes receiving $4000 grants include first time grantees Tiffany Williams (400 meter hurdles), Nichole Denby (100 meter hurdles), Mary Wineberg (400 meters), Stevi Large (hammer throw) and Bettie Wade (heptathlon).

In 2009, Tiffany was ranked 2nd in the USA and 5th in the world in the 400 meter hurdles. Nichole placed 4th in the 100 meter hurdles at the 2008 Olympic Trials. Mary had a stellar three year period where she ranked in the top 10 in the world and was the second or third best 400 meter runner in the USA behind Sanya Richards. Stevi Large and Bettie Wade are young, up-and-coming athletes.

Repeat grantees receiving $4000 grants include Jamaal Torrance (400 meters), Nicole Leach (400 meter hurdles) and Yvette Lewis (triple jump/100 meter hurdles).

Jamaal capped off an excellent 2010 indoor season by taking a 400 meter individual bronze and a gold medal as part of the 4x400 relay, at the World Championships in Doha. Nicole trains with Allyson Felix, and in 2009, was ranked 4th in the USA and 19th in the world in the 400 meter hurdles.

"Each of these grant recipients reflects the embodiment of the Foundation goal; providing an opportunity for the athlete to continue their development, while at the same time broadening the base of USA Track & Field,” said Mike Kitson, Foundation Director. “As a Foundation, we are excited at the opportunity to assist each of these outstanding athletes.”

The Foundation Elite Athlete Grant Program contributes to the pursuit of world-class performances by American post-collegiate track and field athletes. Athletes must meet minimum performance and financial need standards to be eligible and agree to participate in the Win With Integrity program.

The USATF Foundation provides a means to attract and guide funds to new and innovative track & field programs with an emphasis on providing opportunities for youth athletes, emerging elite athletes, distance training centers and anti-doping education. The Foundation depends upon donations from its Board of Directors and from generous fans of track & field. 

For more information or to contribute to the USA Track & Field Foundation, visit www.usatffoundation.org.