Erica Bartolina Article

[Bubba PV]

http://www.lionsports.net/news/2008/10/ ... ath=mtrack

HAMMOND - Southeastern Louisiana University volunteer track coach Erica Bartolina returned to Hammond late Tuesday night after taking part in the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team's visit to the White House earlier that morning. The White House visit caps a busy 2008 season for the 28-year old pole vaulter and first-time Olympian.

"For me, it put into perspective the importance that each Olympian has in representing our country," Bartolina said. "So much of our time is put into training and preparing for our sport, something which tends to be out of the limelight of the media and public view. The long hours of hard work are not put in for the recognition that we receive when we succeed, but so that we may each achieve our own dreams and accomplish the goals that we set for ourselves. Sometimes we forget that in doing this, we are setting an example for others and inspiring others to also be the best they can be. It is an honor to be recognized as an ambassador of the USA and represent everything that our country stands for. It is not a reward for being a good athlete or winning medals, it is a reward for working hard, doing my best, and never giving up: something that everyone can do and be rewarded for in their own lives."

Bartolina earned a place on the U.S. Track and Field team by finishing third at the U.S. Olympic Trials in July. Following her Olympic debut, Bartolina embarked on a tour of some of the most elite track and field meets in the world including Golden League events in Italy and Belgium, as well as Grand Prixs in China and South Korea.

The highlight of the year for the Philomath, Ore. native proved to be clearing 14 ft. 7 in. (4.45 m) to claim fourth place as the top American vaulter at the Asia Grand Prix meet in Daegu, South Korea in September.

"It has been a breakthrough season for me in a lot of ways," Bartolina said after the Asia Grand Prix. "Making the Olympic Team, improving my best by 6 inches, competing in Golden League and Grand Prix meets. Although I had some big disappointments, the positive experiences I have had greatly outshine them. I am excited to have shared them with everyone."