June 29, 2008
Eugene, Ore.- Two weeks after capturing the NCAA title in the triple jump, Erica McLain qualified for the U.S. Olympic Team by placing third at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials. McLain will now head to Beijing, China to compete in the 2008 Summer Olympic Games.
McLain posted a mark of 45-9 ¾ to finish third and having already achieved the Olympic A Standard qualified for the Olympics.
"I had a rough day yesterday, but its fine," said McLain. "I couldn't be happier making the team, that's what I came in here to do and the mission was accomplished."
McLain has had quite a month, having won a NCAA Title, graduating from Stanford with a degree in communications, and now making the Olympic Team.
"It has been a whirlwind last month with the NCAA Championships and graduation," said McLain. "But, it is a very busy and exciting time."
The other Stanford grad to compete on Sunday was Summer Pierson ('00) in the discus. Pierson placed sixth with a throw of 186-0, but did not make the Olympic Team.
The trials continue tomorrow with several Stanford athletes to compete. The prelims of the women's 5,000 meters will be loaded with Stanford athletes including Teresa McWalters, Arianna Lambie ('08), and Lauren Fleshman ('03). McLain will also be right back on the track to compete in the long jump. Her teammate Lindsay Allen will compete in the prelims of the 3,000 meter steeplechase. In addition, Ian Dobson ('05) and Jonathon Riley ('02) will compete in the final of the men's 5,000 meters.