The Illinois contingent was in full force at USATF Jr. Olympics in Jacksonville, Florida. Below are a few key highlights.
- Kathleen "KD" Young (Warrensburg-Latham) follows up her gold medal in the shot put to take bronze in the Girls 15-16 age group Discus Throw. Young connected on a 136-11 toss on her first attempt.
- Walmer Saavedra (Chicago Lindblom/Legacy Runners TC) completed his summer with personal best (8:53.52) and third place in the 17-18 year old Boys 3000m run. Saavedra has been training for cross country during his summer track racing days. He will be vying for top honors during the harrier season this fall.
- Julia Junkroski (Lincoln-Way East/Jump High Athletic Club)- The high school state champion pole vaulter placed 5th in her final competition as a prep with a clearance of 11-7.75 in the Girls 17-18 division.
- William Session (Belleville East/Track My Speed) nearly equals his personal best in the Boys 17-18 year old division 110HH with a solid 13.93 (+0.1) semi-final win. Session will go for his first national title on Saturday.
- Allison Wahrman (Glenbard North/Dupage Track Club) earns All-American status in the 17-18 Girls Triple Jump leaping 37-10.75 (-1.0).
- Chris Thompson (Lemont/Track My Speed) gets automatic qualifier to semis in the Boys 17-18 400m running 49.24.