FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 8, 2009

Christian Smith, 2008 800 Meter Olympian To Leave OTC Elite

Eugene, Oregon - OTC Elite has announced the departure of team member Christian Smith. In order to complete his undergraduate degree from Kansas State University; Smith will return to the Manhattan, Kansas campus. Smith spoke highly of his time in Eugene.

"Leaving Eugene after only a year and a half has been a very difficult decision to make. The town and team made the experience everything I hoped it would be. Being a part of Eugene's 800m sweep at the trials will always mean so much to me. I am moving back to Kansas to finish my degree that I put on hold to come to Eugene before the Olympic year. I have had a great fall of training, I feel like my fitness has improved drastically from last year. I will continue to have good relationships with everyone at the Oregon Track Club" said Smith.

Smith competed at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing as a result of his third place finish
on the 800 meters at the US Olympic Track and Field Team Trials held in Eugene last summer. His plans include a return to Eugene to compete at the US Trials for the World Championships on June 25, 2009.

"I am pleased with Christian's fitness this fall. He has trained quite effectively and he leaves Eugene healthy, fit, and ready for a great year. We look forward to following his progress this winter", says Frank Gagliano, outgoing OTC Elite Coach.

Contact:
Rob Vermillion
[email protected]

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