Star Studded Field Headed to STC 2002

DINWIDDIE, VA -- Although the meet is four months away, the 2002 Southern Track Classic has a boatload of early commitments from elite talent. Several current National leaders, All-Americans and numerous State Champs have indicated that The Classic is on their schedule. Early indications are that the Girls Mile will be a deep, fast race with Oakton's Kiera Calstrom, Carolina Day's Millrose Qualifier and Footlocker All American Laura Stanley, and Menchville's Megan Issacs being early commitments. Meet record holder, defending champ and defending State "AA" champion Delaney Moje of Western Albemarle is expected to be in that mix. Current National leader, defending Nike Indoor Classic and Southern Track Classic champion Keith Moffat from Menchville will be back to defend his high jump title. Keith also happens to be one of the best Junior high jumpers on the planet.

The boys distance races have major talent slated, but some athletes are undecided at which distances they will test themselves. All Americans Bobby Curtis of Louisville St. Xavier, Fleet Hower of Marion, current 3200 National leader Matt Keally of Ocean Lakes, Alex Tatu of Thomas Dale, John Crews of Rochbridge, Daniel Kane of Louisa, John Piersol of Maggie Walker and Anthony D'Amato of Midlothian are some of the distance runners definite for May 10.

The boys 400 and 800 are looming as potential barnburners with current National 500 leader Quintin Bowens from Heritage and Marcus Satchel of Bethel (47.54) both committed to race. The two-lap feature should include Stephen Carlson of Louisa, Phil Gaeta of Oakton and Jarret Ridgeway of Maggie Walker.

The vault for both boys and girls will again be strong with Chip Heuser of St. Xavier (current National Leader) Daniel Garrett of Great Bridge and defending State "AAA" champ Kira Barcus of Atlee in the field.

The girl's throws should again be outstanding with Wake Forest bound Lindsay Neuberger scheduled to compete. The Cox athlete was named most outstanding female at the 2001 STC. Fast improving Tiffany Evans of Garfield and Tierra Hubbard of William Fleming are also scheduled to compete.

The girl's hurdles should produce National caliber performances and will feature Jelyn Quick (Menchville) and Central region dynamo Briana Smith (Manchester).

These are but some of the athletes whose coaches have indicated they will compete. There will be updates released about once a month until the entry deadline. Coaches and Athletes are reminded that official nomination forms will be mailed to the schools the week after the state indoor meet.