December 2006 Newsletter

Robinson Named USATF Athlete of the Week!

Video of Kelley's Race

Nederland’s Kelley Robinson Wins Junior Olympic National Championship
Spokane, Washington

Nederland Middle School 7th grader Kelley Robinson captured the National Junior Olympic Title in the 12-13 Age Group Saturday morning at the Plantes Serry Park in Spokane.

Robinson covered the 4 kilometer course in 14:10, crossing the finish line over 100 meters in front of her nearest competitor. Over 300 runners competed in a light snowfall.

"The footing was OK even though there were a couple icy spots,” said Robinson. “I thought I should start fast since I don’t have a good sprint at the finish.”

Robinson’s strategy worked to perfection, as she caught the leaders at 800 meters, and took the lead for good at the mile mark.

Earlier in the fall, Robinson led her middle school team to the State Middle School Cross Country title in Monte Vista, winning the individual championship in the process.

Robinson represents Ric Rojas Running, and is coached by her mother, Sabrina, who is a two-time Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier, and former 2:36 marathon runner.