Willie Banks to triple-jump at both Orono and Riccione
Hall of Famer and three-time Olympian Willie Banks, a former world record holder, is entered in his signature event, the TJ, at Orono. He’s also signed up for Riccione worlds (whose entry deadline for Americans is May 14, BTW). Last October, he set an M50 American Record of 14.00 (45-11 1/4). But he’s still after the world record of 14.07 (46-2). Don’t bet against his getting it twice this summer. The American team for Riccione may be the smallest in decades, but it’s superstrong.
Among those ticketed for worlds are Aaron Thigpen, Robert Thomas, Bill Collins, Stephen Robbins, Marty Krulee, Steve Gallegos, Nolan Shaheed, Milan Jamrich, Larry Colbert, Harry Brown and Mel Larsen.
On the downside, I think we’ll field only a handful of relays. Some folks may have to drop down in age group.
On the women’s side are Jeanne Daprano, Marie-Louise Michelsohn, Joy Upshaw-Margerum, Lesley Chaplin-Swann and Rita Hanscom. But no Phil Raschker, Kathy Martin or Nadine O’Connor.
The oldest American man in Italy looks to be Tom Kennell, 86. The oldest athlete on the U.S. squad will be ironwoman Betty Jarvis, a Masters Hall of Famer. She’s 92 — and entered in all the throws, plus the weight pentathlon. You go, girl!
