July 13, 2000

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - When the Olympic Games kickoff Sept. 15 in Australia, Wake Forest University could be well represented. Nine different athletes with a connection to the school are vying for roster spots in three sports - track and field, men's basketball and the triathlon.

There is also a chance that athletes with Wake Forest ties could represent three different nations - the United States, Lithuania and Trinidad and Tobago - at the Olympic Games.

Two former Deacs have already earned roster spots for the Olympics. Hunter Kemper, a 1998 WFU graduate, will represent the United States on the triathlon team. Tim Duncan, the former men's basketball All-American, will represent the USA on its star-studded team. Duncan could find himself matched up against current Deacon Darius Songalia at the Olympics. Songalia is currently trying out for the Lithuanian national team. Trinidad and Tobago may be represented by former Wake Forest multi-sport athlete Steve Brown, a 1991 graduate hoping to represent his country in the 110 high hurdles.

Five of the nine athletes with Wake Forest ties will be competing at the U.S. Track and Field Olympic Trials, which begin Friday in Sacramento (Calif.):

Competing At The U.S. Track and Field Olympic Trials

• Chris Huffins (Decathlon) -- the Wake Forest assistant track coach may be the favorite to win the Olympic Trials.
• Ann Marie Louck (10K, 5K) -- Former Deacon and one of the top contenders in the 10,000 meters.
• Andy Bloom (Shot put, Discus) -- the 1996 WFU graduate is one of the top contenders in both field events.
• Jon Russell (Steeplechase) -- the 1996 WFU All-American will contend in the steeplechase.
• Nolan Swanson (10K) -- WFU grad competing this week in the 10,000 meters.