Jesien Wraps up Competition at NCAAs for Cavaliers

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CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Junior Andrew Jesien wrapped up the Cavaliers’ competition at the 2008 NCAA Outdoor Championships on Saturday with a 13th place finish in the 1500 meters. Jesien was the first Virginia competitor since John Hinton was a three-time All-American in the event in 1985 to race in the finals of the 1500m at the national championships. Jesien’s time of 3:45.30 was less than two seconds off of his personal-best. Leonel Manzano from Texas won the event in 3:41.25.

“The fact that Andrew made the finals is a great achievement in itself,” assistant coach Jason Dunn said. “He’s had a great season and although we would have liked to have seen him finish with All-America status, he had a great finish to a strong season and we’re extremely proud of his accomplishments.”

The junior was the last Cavalier to compete at the 2008 outdoor championships, which saw junior Yemi Ayeni and senior Billie-Jo Grant earn All-American honors. Jesien wraps up his season as the ACC Champion in the 1500m and he earned all-region honors in the event at the NCAA East Region Championships.