March 4, 2002

With New York City’s Armory hosting the USA Indoor Track and Field Championships, it must have felt more like Columbia than Big Apple as USC brought home four champions and two runner-up finishes for the school’s volunteer coaches and former athletes who train under USC Head Coach Curtis Frye.

Former Gamecock Terrence Trammell tried his turn at the 60m and came away with the win, crossing the finish line at 6.56. With his win he defeated two Olympic gold medalists in Jon Drummond and Shawn Crawford. “I thought I got out pretty well,” said Trammell, who trains in Columbia while completing his senior year at USC. “Lane 8 was good for me. It helped me to focus on my own race. I had a little time off after the meet in Nebraska and it helped me out. I had a bit of a down year last year. It’s tough being young and fast and then having some down time. I’m happy to see it through and I’m glad to run like I did.”

Volunteer coach Allen Johnson, the 2001 Outdoor World Champion in the 110m hurdles, won the men’s 60m hurdles at 7.45 – the second fastest time in the world in 2002. Johnson, the 1996 Olympic gold medalist, also won the USA Outdoor title in 2001. “I felt good out there. I feel like I’m in as good of shape as I’ve ever been,” said Johnson. “It was nice to have everyone cheering and the kids coming up to get your autograph.”

Volunteer coach Monique Hennagan, a Spring Valley native, won the 400m with a time of 52.90. It was Hennagan’s first USA indoor title. “Coach Frye set up a plan and I was determined to hold on this time because I didn’t run so well in the prelims,” said Hennagan. “It felt good to have my first indoor victory here at the Armory.”

Thirteen was not a lucky number for USC graduate Dawn Ellerbe. It took the top throw in the world to beat Ellerbe, who was looking for her 13th straight USA title. Ellerbe finished second in the 20lb. weight and second in the world this year with her toss of 73′ 7 1/2.

Volunteer coach Melissa Morrison won the women’s 60m hurdles with a time of 7.91. She holds the second fastest time in the world this year at 7.85 (Paris, Feb.) and the 7.91 ranks as the 10th best time in 2002.

USC graduate Pap Howard was fifth in the 200m at 21.42.

And finally Tongula Givens, who trains at USC as part of Speed Elite Track Club, finished second in the long jump at 20′ 10.