BC freshman sets state meet, school records in javelin
| Friday, May 15 2009 10:42 PM
Last Updated Friday, May 15 2009 10:42 PM
SAN MATEO Before last weekend's SoCal Regionals, Cooper Thompson hinted that his best javelin throw had yet to come.
The Bakersfield College freshman literally saved his best for last Friday afternoon at the California Community College Athletic Association Track and Field Championships in San Mateo.
After fouling on his second to last attempt and trailing leader Ray Lian of Saddleback by a mere inch, Thompson unleashed a personal best, BC best and state-meet record mark of 222 feet to secure his spot on top of the medal podium.
"I knew the pressure was on, and that it was all or nothing," Thompson said. "I just said a prayer and really focused."
Thompson's top mark shattered his previous best of 208-6 and broke the 16-year-old state championship meet mark of 221-11, set by Ken Teasley of Moorpark.
"I thought a few weeks ago he could throw in the 220s," BC throwing coach Amber Varner-Atkinson said. "I knew he had it in him."
Thompson's mark qualified him for the Junior Nationals Track and Field Championship June 25-28 in Eugene, Ore.
