Latest News

Upcoming Races

TBA

Journal

May 14, 2012

Out of Olympic Trials

I have known for a couple of weeks that I would not be able to compete in the Olympic Trials.  It was an emotional decision.  After I could talk about it without tearing up, I told Nike I was out for the season.  Now that I have told the boss I can let everyone know. 

I have spent 4 months trying to rehab my lower leg.  My injury is a combination of poor foot mechanics, weak peroneals, weak foot, sensory nerve issues and Achilles.  These things have been building on themselves for a couple years now.  Part of the problem is that we have spent the last 3 years just patching up the problems that arise to get me through the season or to the next race.  In track and field, you are only as good as your last race and you get paid for performance, not for being injured.

My insurance hates me! In the last 4 months I have seen 4 orthopedic specialists, 4 physical therapists, an active release therapist, had 2 MRI’s, 2 X-rays, 3 diagnostic ultrasounds, 2 cortisone shots, shock wave treatment, 2 EMGs (nerve tests) and various physical therapy exercises.  One of the doctors said that it was time to take a break and rest.  I didn’t like that advice so I continued to see other doctors.  They all started to agree.  I had exhausted all avenues and it was time to rest in order to fully get healthy.   I had to make a decision that was best for the long term. 

The plan is to take a few weeks completely off.  I will then rebuild from the inside out.  I will start from the base and get strong.  The goal is to get balanced and healthy before I begin aggressively running again.  I want to be fixed not patched up.  I truly believe that this route will give me a better chance at a longer career.  There are more goals and races left in my legs and heart.

I will miss the thrill of walking out onto the track for the Olympic trials.  However, I am excited to see who will represent the USA in London this summer.  We have the best track and field team in the World.  Don’t miss the best athletes showing off their talents this summer in Oregon for the Olympic Trials.  It all starts June 21 in Portland with Hammer Time at the Nike Campus in Beaverton, OR.  Then, the action moves to Track Town (Eugene, OR) for 2 sessions.  The first session is Friday June 22 to Monday June 25th.  The second session is Thursday June 28 to Sunday July 1st.  This will be the hardest Olympic Team to make.  Everyone will be on top of their game.  Don’t miss it!