Koll Takes on Olympic Trials

AMES, Iowa- As if winning a national title, breaking a collegiate record and defending her conference title were not enough, Iowa State sophomore Lisa Koll will try to race her way into the 2008 Beijing Olympics on Friday, competing in the 10,000-meter run at the Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore.

Koll will not only be racing for a top-three finish, she will also be fighting time. To qualify for Beijing, the Fort Dodge native needs to hit 31:45.00 to meet the Olympic A standard and she has to do so against a loaded field of athletes. Of the top-12 runners competing, Koll is the only athlete without a professional contract. Even with stiff competition, ISU's best is still up for the challenge.

“This type of competition will help me test the waters,” said Koll. “Being with other people during the race and fighting for a spot at the Olympics is going to be exciting. I like the position that I am in. It's a lot different than the collegiate field but I have to put myself out there. I want to make myself known. I'd like to make some noise if I can.”

Koll currently holds the seventh spot at the trials with her American collegiate record setting time of 32:11.13. Less than one minute separates Koll from the third-place time. The women's 10,000-meter run is scheduled to kickoff at 11:20 p.m. CDT. Results will be posted at the conclusion of the race.

Players Mentioned

Lisa Koll

Lisa Koll

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