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New Jersey’s Sydney McLaughlin Becomes Youngest American Track & Field Olympian in 44 years

Sydney McLaughlin (Photo by Robert Samuels - Double G Media)

Sydney McLaughlin (Photo by Robert Samuels – Double G Media)

A young star emerged during the 400-meter hurdles competition at the United States Track and Field this past weekend.

Sydney McLaughlin won her semifinals heat by beating four collegians and three professionals. And in Sunday’s final, she ran a 54.15, topping three pros and two collegians. Her time set the world junior record and earned her a spot on the Olympic roster alongside Dalilah Muhammad and Ashley Spencer.

The 16-year old Dunellen, New Jersey native is the youngest American track and field Olympian in 44 years. McLaughlin will be entering her senior year at Union Catholic High School later this year.  She does not turn 17 until August 7. Quite a way to celebrate a birthday, with a trip to Rio as a member of the United States Track and Field Team.

McLaughlin’s time of 54.15 on Sunday shattered the World Junior record of 54.40 set in 2005 by Xing Wang of China. It also places her No. 11 on the all-time U.S. list.

She is the second athlete from Union Catholic HS to make an Olympic team. The first was Kris Kirchner who made the U.S. Women’s Basketball Team in 1980.

 

 

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