GRINNELL, Iowa – For the second straight competitive season, senior Marissa Bolen has competed for a national championship.
Bolen finished the 2016 indoor season 11th in the nation in the shot put with a toss of 13.21 meters on second attempt. She went 12.48 on her first attempt and fouled on her final attempt. With the top nine distances qualifying for the finals, Bolen missed making the finals by 0.10 meters.
She entered the championships ranked 17th and was able to improve six spots.
“My indoor experience has been great,” said Bolen. “I’m super happy with how far I’ve come this year, setting a school record this winter and qualifying for nationals. I’ve struggled the last couple of meets, but I knew what it took to get where I am. I’m hoping that this indoor season will lead to a great outdoor season for my senior year.”
Competing in last year’s outdoor championships, where she finished 17th, was beneficial for the senior.
“My outdoor experience helped me a lot today,” said Bolen. “I was much calmer and knew how things ran. I think that’s a huge thing for throwers. My outdoor experience also helped me plan my throws. You’re only guaranteed three, so everything goes to those three throws.”
She became the first Wilmington shot putter to compete in both the indoor and outdoor championships.
