By: by Krissy Wade
Both the Owls' men's and women's Track and Field teams were well represented at the USATF Junior National Championships, with both
Suzzette Van-Lare, and
Jemir Martinez competing in Eugene, Ore., over the weekend.
On Friday, sprinter, Martinez competed in the 100m, finishing the race with a time of 10.81 to place 12th overall.
"Jemir did very well," Assistant Coach Devin West said. "He represented Kennesaw State well, and ran a good race. It was a great experience for him."
Martinez qualified for the national meet after recording a time of 10.66 at the Atlantic Sun Championships on May 15.
"The entire experience was remarkable," Martinez said. "I received the opportunity to see a lot of the athletes I have watched on TV, and watch them in the same field of competition.
"The experience made me want to work even harder so that I can achieve more of my goals, and hopefully qualify for NCAA Nationals."
Meanwhile, on the women's side, Van-Lare represented the Owls in the triple jump on Sunday, making the finals before finishing in eighth overall, out of 21 competitors, with a new Kennesaw State record of 12.18m.
"It was the highest level of competition she has ever participated in, and she opened with a new personal record," Assistant Coach Mike Goss said. "She really stepped up in an atmosphere of great competition and represented Kennesaw well."
Van-Lare qualified for the meet after recording a distance of 11.95m at the Outdoor Conference Championships on May 15, as well.
"The experience of being here was very rewarding," Van Lare said. "It motivates me to continue improving, and to strive to reach an even higher level."
Both Martinez and Van-Lare were the first Kennesaw State Track and Field athletes to compete in the national meet.
"It was an incredible experience for all of us involved," West said. "I became a better coach this weekend, just based on what I witnessed; the focus and dedication of every athlete and coach there."
