Day 1 of the US Track and Field Championships saw heavy competition in the throwing events. Some good Wisconsin connections and even some MADISON THROWS CLUB connections.
Junior Women's Discus:
Jessica Maroszek , Seymour '10, who now throws at Kansas, came in as the top seeded Junior in the country, finished 3rd. Her throw of 157'6" was 1 inch behind the 2nd place finisher. The multiple Wisconsin State Champion had a strong 1st year in college finishing with All-Big 12 honors and was a NCAA National qualifier. She will compete Friday in the Shot Put against MTC's own Angela Boushea.
Senior Men's Hammer:
No Wisconsin connections here. But I was lucky enough to watch Kibwe Johnson unleash the 5 best throws of the competition. His winning throw of 263'6" was over 80 meters and was the best throw by an American in 11 years. His speed in the circle is truly amazing. Video here soon.
Senior Women's Discus:
Stephanie Brown-Trafton put the competition to rest early, much like she did when she won the 2008 Olympic Discus Gold Medal on her first throw. Today she threw 207'10" in round 1 and no one could catch her! I got to meet her after the meet- so cool!
Senior Women's Shot Put:
One of the best competitions I have ever seen!!! A battle started during round 2between JillIan Camarena-Williams and Michelle Carter. Camarena-William's throw of 65'1.5" was the 2nd best throw in US history. Only to be bested by Carter on the very next throw of the competition by one half inch - 65'2". Camarena-Williams would do her best to catch her but would have to settle for second place, despite throwing perhaps the best series ever - with throws of 65'1.25" and 64'11.5" in round 5 and 6. Her round 3 scratch was well over 66' and may have broken the American Record, had she not nicked the top of the toe board.
Senior Men's Discus:
Former UW-Whitewater,2 time NCAA Champion, and friend of Madison Throws Club, Dan Hytinen was the first thrower in the competition. His best throw of the day was 191'7" and was good for 13th. I was lucky enough to watch Dan throw his 201' qualifying throw 2 weeks ago at the Chicagoland Throws meet...it was awesome. Talking with Dan after the meet, he said he didn't feel good in the circle at all. I'm sure it isn't the last we've heard from Dan in the circle. Also, Lance Brooks , who spent 3 weeks training in Wisconsin earlier this year had a strong performance. His throw of 208'1" was good for a podium finish - 3rd.
More throws tomorrow!
Until then, throw far,
Coach Frontier
