July 15, 2000
(SACRAMENTO)-- DeDee Nathan, a graduate of Indiana University and a member of the Indiana Invaders, won the women's heptathlon with 6,343 points just four points over Shelia Burrel (Nike) on the second day of the 2000 U.S. Olympic Trials. Nathan becomes the first Olympic athlete in the Invaders' two year history.

As the top finisher, Nathan advances to the Olympic Games on her third attempt having finished fourth at the '92 and '96 Olympic Trials. Nathan's heptathlon score is her best performance this year. Nathan stayed within five seconds of Burrel in the final event, the 800 meters, to win. "You have to be happy as hell for DeDee. Eight years of work," said Invaders Head Coach Chris Buhler. Nathan's strength coach, John Smith, commented before the 800 meter race that "Nathan did what she needed to do, be solid in every event (to win)." The rest of Nathan's coaching team, speed coach George Freeman and throws coach David Martin, concurred "She'll have to focus on being "track sharp" for the Olympics in September and we have six weeks to finish getting ready."

"I knew it would be touch and go in the 800 for DeDee, but this year she will make the Olympic Team," said Track Coaches Association President and former Indiana University Head Track Coach Sam Bell.

Invaders teammates Frankie Young and Le'Gretta Smith competed in the long jump and 400 meter hurdles respectively. Young jumped 7.43 meters and Smith finished fourth in her section with a 57.76 second effort. Both failed to advance to the finals in their events.

Eight Invader athletes have yet to compete in the Trials that continue through July 23. Collette Liss qualified on Friday for the final in the 1500 meters to take place Sunday. Liss enters the race with the sixth fastest time. Jamie Strieter and Angie Joy will begin their qualifying process on Sunday in the javelin and discus respectively.

Complete Results available at:
http://www.runnersworld.com/road2sydney/outdoors/home.html

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