Des Moines, Iowa is going to be represented in Beijing.  We have two athletes going for the gold:  Shawn Johnson a current Valley Student…Lolo Jones a former Roosevelt athlete.  Johnson is a talented gymnast and Jones is competing in 100 m hurdles. 

Shawn Johnson is a West Des Moines native.  In my opinion, Johnson is a shoe-in to win the gold in gymnastics.  Shawn has a beautiful, contagious smile.  It’s no wonder she has big sponsors like Hy-Vee, Adidas and Coca-Cola.  With all her current success, it seems like she still remains well grounded.  Best of luck Shawn!

Lolo Jones did not make the 2004 Olympics…leaving her with doubts as to where her track career was going.    However, she continued to pursue her dream and won the indoor 60 m hurdles in March ‘08 which led her to Beijing.  Her first round of the Olympic 100 meter hurdles is on Sunday the 17th….Good Luck Lolo!

Some other Iowans competing in the Olympics include: Ben Askren–wrestler, Jenny Barringer–3,000 m steeplechase, A.G. Kruger–hammer thrower, Jason McCartney–cyclist, Christine Thorburn–cyclist, Nancilea Underwood-Foster–diver, Leigh Smith–javelin.

Iowa is well represented in the Beijing Olympics—go kick some “booty” and bring home the gold. 

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