Jorgensen takes bronze, Grant earns All-American honor as a first year
Virginia\'s Inge Jorgensen, a four-time ACC Champion, earned the bronze medal at the 2005 NCAA Track & Field Championships in the javelin, throwing a 51.41m (165\' 2\"), her highest finish in NCAA competition. It is the third time in her career she has earned All-American honors. Teammate Billie Jo Grant, competing in her first year outdoors, also earned All-American honors, throwing a 51.41m (168\' 8\") in the discus, taking ninth overall. It is the first All-American honor for Grant.
\"I was very proud of Inge,\" said UVA head coach Randy Bungard. \"She has been a big part of our program for 6 years and it is appropriate that she finish her career at UVA with her highest finish ever. She will be missed as she moves on to the next chapter in her life.\"
A number of other Cavaliers competed last night, including Kellen Blassingame (400m) and Erin Crawford (400 hurdles), both of whom competed in the semifinals of their respective events. Blassingame, who holds the school record in the quarter, ran a 46.58, while Crawford, who also holds the school record in the 400IH, ran a 59.20.
\"I am very proud of Kellen,\" said Bungard. \"He has had a great year. It just so happens that he is in an event in which the USA produces the best 400m runners in the world out of college. Today\'s 400m semis were the fastest in the history of the NCAA.\"
\"Erin was very disappointed in her semi-final performance, said Bungard. \"Her race was not indicative of her ability. Her first trip to this meet has put it in perspective for her and she will be back and ready to redeem herself next year. She made me proud this week.\"
Tomika Ferguson competed in the opening round of the triple jump, and she leapt 12.16m (39\' 10.75\"). \"Tomika was a 38 foot triple jumper in high school two years ago,\" said Bungard. \"She is still learning what this level is all about. I am proud of how she is adjusting to meets like the NCAA. She will only get better and better.\"