26 Feb USA Track & Field Foundation awards Elite Athlete Development Grants to 28 athletes
INDIANAPOLIS – The USA Track & Field Foundation has awarded Elite Athlete Development Grants to 28 athletes, Foundation Executive Director Tom Jackovic and Chairman Bob Greifeld announced today.
The Foundation Elite Athlete Grant Program contributes to the pursuit of world-class performances by American post-collegiate track & field athletes. The USA Track & Field Foundation supports elite athletes as they strive to achieve their dream of competing in an Olympic Games, a World Championship or other Team USA competitions. The Foundation provides assistance to athletes that meet its grant application criteria, including income thresholds and performance standards.
“Thanks to generous donations from our Board of Directors and loyal track & field fans, we are able to support the training, coaching, travel and medical expenses that athletes need to stay on top of their game,” stated Chairman Bob Greifeld.
Leading the 2014 class are six athletes designated as Stephen Schwarzman grantees. These grantees are recognized for their success on an international level and for having an excellent opportunity to be in medal contention in 2016. The following athletes will receive $7,000 grants: Keshia Baker-Kirtz (400 meters), Morgan Uceny (1500m meters), Tori Bowie (long jump), Mary Saxer (pole vault), Kylie Hutson (pole vault), and Dustin Jonas (high jump).
Athletes receiving traditional $3000 Elite Athlete Development Grants include: Janice Keppler (Pole Vault), Kiani Profit (Heptathlon), Michael Hartfield (Long Jump), Ronald Taylor (Long Jump), Jeff Henderson (Long Jump), Chelsea Hayes (Long Jump), Jamie Cheever (Steeplechase), Jack Whitt (Pole Vault), Maya Pressley (High Jump) Christine Spence (400 Hurdles), Chelsea Reilly (5000 meters), Jeff Porter (110 Hurdles), Amanda Smock (Triple Jump), Heather Kampf (800 meters), Erik Sowinski (800 meters), Bryce Lamb (Triple Jump), Manteo Mitchell (400 meters), Inika McPherson (High jump), Tori Polk (Long Jump), Geena Gall (800 meters), Don Cowart (Steeplechase), and Jordan Scott (Pole Vault).
Combined with last week’s announcement of 14 John W. James grantees, the USA Track & Field Foundation has awarded $192,000 so far in 2014.
Additionally, these athletes will have the opportunity to appear at various elementary and middle schools across the country in the USA Track & Field Foundation’s Run With US! program.
In each Run With US! event, Olympic athletes coach students on track & field skills and exercise drills that can be completed right next to their desks. The program provides an opportunity for the elite athletes and Olympians to give back to their community.