By Christian Mosqueda
Staff Writer
By the time the papers roll around Thursday morning, the CSUDH’s women’s track and field pre-season will be over, and their focus will be on the beginning of the outdoor schedule.
The Toros will be returning with a talented trio of veterans: Zefora Kemp, Mariah Walker and Tyrana Beasley, who earned 2nd team All-CCAA honors for the 2015-16 season in the 4×100 relays.
The Toros will also be aided by Olympic Gold medalist and CSUDH alumna Carmelita Jeter, who in November was announced as an assistant trainer by head coach Warren Edmonson.
“It’s great for the girls being able to identify with an Olympic champion, and world record-holder, who’s also a CSUDH alum,” Edmonson told DH Athletics. “She knows what it takes to be a champion, how to fight, and how to prepare both physically and mentally, to become a champion.”
Jeter finished her university studies in 2003. Her arduous work ethic then fueled her ascension to the top ranks of American sprinters. She would go on to make the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, which saw her win a gold medal in the 4×100 relays (in world record time), a silver in the 100 meters and a bronze in the 200 meters.
“Carmelita is a big idol to me,” said Tyrana Beasley. “She has pushed me in so many ways and has taught me things that I have never known before. This year I see myself going to nationals and hopefully winning it.”
As for what this addition means to the team as a whole Beasley added: “Our whole team is good. I see them getting better and better each day.”
The Toros return to action Feb. 25, traveling to Claremont, where they will participate in the Rossi Relays to begin the outdoor track and field season.
