by Larry Eder
Morgan Uceny winning 2012 US Olympic Trials, photo by PhotoRun.net
RunBlogRun opines: One of our favorite athletes, Morgan Uceny has seen the highs and lows of athletics. A class act through and through, Morgan would dust herself off and come back. I enjoyed seeing her at events around the world, and our interviews. Her racing took her to a world number one ranking in 2011, and wins at U.S. Olympic Trials. We wish her the very best in the next part of her journey.
Press release from Global Athletics & Marketing, RunBlogRun comments follows:
BOSTON, Mass. (Dec. 14, 2016) – Olympian and former world number one Morgan Uceny has announced her retirement from professional track and field.
“Being an okay runner in high school with aspirations of playing collegiate basketball, I never envisioned that I would eventually have a nine year career as a professional runner, said Uceny. “During each stage of my running career, I accomplished more than I ever thought possible. Being an Olympian is a badge I will always carry and wear with the utmost pride.”
“The success that I experienced would not have been possible without the guidance of my long time coach and mentor, Terrence Mahon. He took a chance on a small town girl and made her believe that she could run with the best in the world. At this time, I’ve given everything I have to the sport but am looking forward to beginning a new adventure.”
“I would also like to thank my agent Mark Wetmore for signing me and providing the opportunities presented to me throughout my career. Mark and his team at Global Athletics helped open doors and make connections for me that were pivotal in the success I had as a runner. Global Athletics introduced me to adidas in 2010 and I’ve had an amazing six years with them.”
“Lastly, I would like to thank my parents Marty and Brenda Uceny for their love and support over the years. From coast to coast and around the world, my family, friends and teammates have been there to support me no matter what. I will treasure the memories made over the years with those that were closest by my side.”
During her career, Uceny won three national championships and was the 2011 IAAF Diamond League Champion at 1500 meters. She ended 2011 as the first American since 1985 to be ranked number one in the world in the 1500 meters by Track & Field News.
