Mamona’s Triple Jump Effort Highlights Clemson’s First Day at Virginia Tech

Feb. 8, 2008

Blacksburg, VA – Patricia Mamona finished runner-up in the triple jump and April Sinkler moved up the ranks in school history in the high jump to lead Clemson’s track & field efforts Friday at the Virginia Tech Elite Meet. Mamona posted a strong NCAA provisional qualifying mark after finishing as the top collegian in the triple jump.

Mamona had a top distance of 43’4.25″ on her fifth jump Friday evening to bump her into second place on evening. It marked a personal best effort for Mamona, who ranks second in school history in the event behind only former NCAA champion Gisele Oliveira. Nakeisha Wineglass finished seventh in the triple jump Friday (39’7.25″).

April Sinkler, a freshman from Stafford, VA, was third overall in the high jump but moved into second place in Clemson’s record books with a clearance of 5’8.75″. Her mark ranks in a tie with Katie Pickett, who cleared the same height in 2004. Sharia Clinkscales (5’9.75″) holds the school indoor record in the high jump.

Sunday Ford came across the finish line in third place in the 5000m run. The junior from Piedmont, SC recorded a time of 17:48.77, just behind Jill Skinner of Georgia and Marley Burns of Wake Forest.

Krystal Barringer advanced to the finals of Friday’s open 60m hurdles section. The Charlotte, NC native finished eighth in the event. Polly Hardy, Clemson’s top high hurdler, will compete Saturday in the invitational section. Hardy had the Lady Tigers’ top time (25.24) in the 200m dash Friday after finishing 12th overall in the event.

The distance medley relay team was seventh with a time of 12:58.80. The team included Lisa Brown, Joanie Castagno, Jill Yandle, and Maggie Bernard.

The women’s track & field team returns to action Saturday to complete the second day of competition.