Bradley's Goldkamp preparing for Olympic Trials
By: Michael Klos
Updated: June 15, 2012
WMBD/WYZZ-TV - PEORIA, IL - Before Mary Goldkamp was bit by the Track bug, she spent her time playing another sport.
"I played soccer all through high school and started running so I could get in shape for soccer. Well,
things changed around a little bit," said Mary Goldkamp, Bradley Asst. Track Coach.
A decorated runner, Goldkamp is a missouri valley conference champ, school recordholder in the 800, the mile and 1500 meters. Now as an assistant track coach at Bradley, she's able
to pass along her talents to others.
"All the girls on the team respect her tremendously for all the things she did while she was at Bradley. Now she takes it to a whole new level," said Marc Burns, Bradley Head Track Coach.
That new level is the 2012 Olympics. Goldkamp has qualified for the US Olympic trials in Eugene, Oregon later this month in the 3000 meter steeplechase.
Marc Burns, Bradley Head Track Coach, says, "She has exceeded everything we have set for her as she has gone along. It's only her fourth steeple of her life.It's unheard of. Unbelievable," said Burns.
"Steeplechase is one of tracks most grueling events. Similar to hurdles where your run around the track for two miles and jump over 35 barriers,which are the size of balance beams. Basically its a giant obstacle course.
"I've had four races and made it on the fourth try. That's the goal. Make it to the Olympic trials and represent the United States and be one of the top runners in the nation," said Goldkamp.
With London calling...Goldkamp is hoping to make the jump across the pond.
