Source: Ian Walton / Getty
18-year-old Vashti Cunningham is the youngest U.S. track and field Olympian in 36 years. Cunningham will represent team USA in high jump at the 2016 Rio Games.
Cunningham finished second in qualifying, behind three time Olympic high jump veteran, Chaunté Lowe. Although she was a bit disappointed she didn’t finish first in qualifying, she is just excited to be a part of the U.S. Olympic team.
Both Cunningham and Lowe are said to be medal contenders in Rio. Cunningham’s personal best is clearing 1.99 meters, and Lowe’s personal best is 2.01 meters. The highest jump for a non-American is 1.99 meters by Poland’s Kamila Licwinko.
Cunningham said, “I always want to win, but this is something that will hit me on the head, and make me work harder. I’ve got more motivation for Rio.”
Good luck in Rio, Vashti! Read more on the story here.
