TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETES SHINE AT 40TH ANNUAL TRI-STATE REGIONAL
June 25, 2010
Dozens of Disabled Athletes Take Part in Three-Day Event
Written by Peter Quartuccio
EDISON, NJ—Despite somewhat shoddy weather, this year’s edition of the Tri-State Regional Track and Field Competition was one of the finest ever run, and included some sparkling performances by the numerous participants. The event, which was held at Thomas Edison Park in Edison, New Jersey, was sponsored by the JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute, and co-sponsored by the Tri-State Wheelchair Athletic Association and the WASUSA. The competition took place over the course of three days, from Friday, May 21 through Sunday, May 23, and included table tennis, archery, weightlifting, shot-put, discus, javelin, and several track events.
The events were separated by both gender and class of disability, and while all of the athletes performed admirably, a few set themselves apart thanks to their monumental efforts. Colleen Rock had a particularly strong few days in Edison, finishing at or near the top in every event—weightlifting, archery, table tennis, track, and field—in which she participated. Miguel Jimenez-Vergara also dominated, taking first in archery as well as several track and field events. Other standouts included Raymond Martin in archery and field, Stephanie Marquez in discus and track, and Lynne Ganley in track and field. One of the more remarkable performances, however, was by Xavier Perez, a runner who despite spraining his ankle, still managed to post impressive times in the 100 and 200 Meter runs.
Determination and sportsmanship were exhibited by all of the athletes at the 40th Annual Tri-State Regional, and their efforts helped to ensure that there will be a 41st.
For more information about disabled sports and events, please visit www.WheelchairSportsFederation.org.
