Araujo Set to Run at NJCAA National Championships
Odessa College will be represented this week at the 2021 NJCAA D1 Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Levelland, TX.
Sophomore Jose Araujo will compete in the 3000m Steeplechase at the Championships. He will run on Wednesday, May 12th at 4:50pm in his qualifying heat.
"I am pretty excited about getting to run at nationals, a little nervous, but mostly excited about the event." said Araujo.
The 3000m Steeplechase consists of seven laps around a track jumping over five barriers per lap, one of those five is a water jump where runners land in a puddle of water that is right behind the barrier.
"Running with wet feet is a bit uncomfortable but I have gotten use to it. It's a lot more enjoyable when the weather is hot as the water helps cool me off while I run."
Araujo qualified for the 2021 NJCAA D1 Outdoor Track and Field Championships early this spring when he ran a personal best 9:26.02 at the Hardin Simmons Meet.
He attributes his success and his steady progression this season by focusing on his form both running and hurdling. Dedicating most of his time to the hurdles, especially the water jump.
"Jose is always the first one to practice and never complains" said head coach Rachel Keylon. "He works hard at everything he does. I could not be prouder of him."
The 2021 NJCAA D1 Outdoor Track and Field National Championships will run from May 11-13th in Levelland, TX at South Plains College.
For more information on the National Championship visit: https://www.njcaa.org/championships/landing/index