Inaugural John W. James Endowment Grant recipients compete at 2011 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships

INDIANAPOLIS - Hayward Field in Eugene, OR, the sight for the USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships (June 23-26), saw eight of the nine inaugural John W. James grant recipients competing for a national title and a chance to represent Team USA at the 2011 IAAF World Championships this summer in Daegu, South Korea, announced Foundation Executive Director Tom Jackovic and Chairman Bob Greifeld.

Four athletes in particular distinguished themselves at the championships earning medals and the privilege of donning the Team USA uniform this summer in Daegu.

Leading the way was Kibwe Johnson, who won the hammer throw competition with a huge throw of 80.31 meters. Mike Hazle won his first national title after having finished second on 4 occasions (’07-‘10). 

• Kibwe Johnson (2-time grantee) – 1st place (hammer throw)
• Mike Hazle (5-time grantee) – 1st place (javelin throw)
• Lance Brooks (2-time grantee) – 3rd place (discus throw)
• Sarah Stevens-Walker (2-time grantee) – 3rd place (shot put)

Kibwe has achieved the IAAF “A” standard, while Mike, Lance and Sarah have achieved the “B” standard.

The remaining four athletes' results were:

• A. G. Kruger ('11 grantee) - 4th place (hammer throw)
• Noah Bryant (3-time grantee) - 6th place (shot put)
• Britney Henry (4-time grantee) – 11th place (hammer throw)
• Russ Winger (3-time grantee) – 4th place (discus throw)/7th Place (shot put)

Stevi Large (hammer throw), who did not compete, was forced to retire earlier in the year due to repeated injuries. It is not known at this time whether Stevi will be able to resume training and once again compete

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 and 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.

For complete results, CLICK HERE.