Norfolk State sprinter Kai Cole ran one of the fastest 100-meter times in the world this year at the Mid-Eastern Atlantic track meet last month. In doing so, he qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials.
However, the MEAC’s epic failure will rob him of his chance to compete for a spot on the Paris team.
Cole shared the disappointing news on Thursday, just one day before the Olympic Trials are set to begin in Eugene, Oregon. USA Track & Field has ruled him ineligible. He cannot run.
Cole, a recently-graduated fifth-year senior, ran a blazing fast 10.05-second time in the 100-meter dash at the MEAC outdoor track and field championships in May. The third-fastest time in the NCAA this season clinched him the conference title and a top-10 national ranking. It also met the Olympic trial qualifying time, down to the millisecond.
As a result of the 10.05, Kai Cole guaranteed himself a spot at the U.S. Olympic Trials. Regardless of how many sprinter hit the standard or how big the field was projected to be, the HBCU sprinter was in the field.
Until he wasn’t.
Apparently, the MEAC failed to sanction its conference championship. The meet was not sanctioned.
A USATF sanction is an official designation issued by USATF, through a local Association, which approves and licenses the holding of a competitive track & field, long distance running, or race walking event in the United States. The sanction is also a contract, which evidences the event’s commitment to follow national and international rules and regulations of the sport, and to provide a safe environment for the participants and spectators. Once the event has satisfied the sanction requirements, the event’s application for sanction is approved.
— United States Track & Field
Because the meet was not sanctioned, Cole was disqualified from the Olympic Trials. His appeal was denied after receiving minimal help from Norfolk State.
Cole will not run at the U.S. Olympic Trials this weekend. He won’t even set up in the blocks. He’s not allowed to participate.
Even though Cole was not considered to be a top contender to make the United States’ team, anything can happen. There is always a chance. Adrenaline can make a big difference.
Unfortunately, Cole won’t even get a chance to try because the MEAC bungled its championship in the most embarrassing way possible. It’s a real scar for the conference and a real shame for its best athlete.