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November 2, 2011
Valcin returns from competing at Pan American Games
Rick Valcin
Hitting the qualifying standard height to compete at the Pan American Games, Cowley College sophomore Rick Valcin represented St. Lucia at the prestigious multi-sport event held in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Valcin was one of only 12 pole vaulters to make the final field. He had three great jumps at 16-0 ¾ but just didn’t leave the bar up.
“He had a great experience getting to see and feel what a world class track meet is like,” Cowley head track and field coach Mark Phillips said.
Cuban Lazaro Borges won the gold medal in the pole vault as he set a Pan-American Games record by clearing 19 feet.
With over 5,000 athletes, 36 different sports and nearly 400 events, the Pan American Games are the second largest multi-sport event after the Summer Olympics. The next edition of the games will be held in Toronto, Canada in 2015.
Phillips hopes the experience of competing at the Pan American Games will benefit Valcin heading into the indoor and outdoor track and field seasons.
“When a young athlete gets to compete in a meet like this it gives them an air of confidence and will make them more comfortable when they compete in championship situations,” Phillips said.
Valcin is a student in Cowley College’s automotive program. Along with receiving his automotive certification, he also plans on obtaining an associates degree from the school.
“He is one of the most motivated young men I have ever been around,” Phillips said.
This well-rounded student-athlete is expected to have a big year during the track and field season.
“We have big goals for how he is going to jump this year,” Phillips said. “He will break school records if he stays healthy.”
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