Michelle Carter became the third Longhorn to clinch a spot on Team USA at the USA Track & Field Olympic trials. The former Texas athlete won the women’s shot put competition on Thursday and will travel to Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Summer Olympics.
After a few of her competitors fell out of contention, Carter secured her spot on Team USA before her final throw.
And on that final attempt, Carter threw a shot put of 19.59 meters, breaking a USA Olympic trials record.
“For me the goal is always to just make the team,” Carter said. “I’m happy just making the team, but for me I really wanted to make the team and be on top. Consistency is great because it lets you know your training is coming together and my goal is to peak big in Rio because my goal is to win gold.”
Carter’s win gives the Longhorn a clean sweep in the shot put competitions of the trials. Former Longhorn Ryan Crouser won the men’s shot put at the beginning of the trials.
“That was unbelievable,” head coach Mario Sategna said. “I think it shows where [Carter’s] at within her career because the conditions couldn’t have been worse with the rain. So that was awesome to see her advance. That was special.”
The trials continue throughout the weekend and end on Sunday.