Posted: Jun 11, 2011
Reilly Qualifies for 2012 Olympics
Bryant Coach Stephanie Reilly Represent Ireland in the 3,000 meter steeplechase in London at the 2012 Olympic Games
SMITHFIELD, R.I. -- Bryant University track & field coach Stephanie Reilly only began racing in the steeplechase three years ago. Now, she's headed to the Olympics.
A native of County Wicklow, Ireland, Reilly will represent her country at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London after running an Olympic standard time in the 3,000 meter steeplechase Saturday at the New York Adidas Diamond League Grand Prix in a personal best 9:42:91.
Finishing seventh overall in Saturday's event held at Icahn Stadium, Randall's Island, her time also qualifies her for a spot at the World Championships in Daegu, South Korea later this summer.
"I am absolutely thrilled," said Reilly following the race. "I am looking forward to representing my country and Bryant University this summer at the World Championships and later at 2012 Olympic Games."
A 2001 graduate of Providence College, Reilly was a member of two New England Championship teams in 1998 and 1999 and 1997's Big East Conference Championship team. Last summer, Reilly represented Ireland at the European Championships in Barcelona, running in a time of 9:48.94.