Competitors from all over the Region 5 has been preparing themselves for the National AAU Junior Olympics and they all have the same objective: To finish at least in the top four in one or more of their events which will qualify them for the Junior Olympics which begin on July 30 – August 4 at Drake University. This past weekend the Athletic Xpress Greyhounds/Virginia Elite Track Club competed in the AAU Region 5 Qualifier at Hampton University in Hampton, VA. Marcus Phifer has been preparing himself for the AAU Junior Olympic National Championship, the premier competition for AAU athletes. It was Marcus’ biggest turnout for the 1500 meter in his age group (15-16). Marcus’ personal best in the 1500 meter run (4:27.07) earned him first place and he placed first in the 3000 Meter Run (9:56.23) for boys 15-16 years old. Marcus finished the weekend by placing first in the 800 meter run with a time of 2:05. According to Head Track Coach David Gary, “This has been a very good season for us with twelve athletes qualifying for AAU Junior Olympic Nationals and with great representation and outstanding performances where everyone was able to set new personal records. We congratulate all Athletic Xpress Greyhounds Track Club athletes and parents as this year has proved that hard work pays off.
