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University of Oklahoma Athletics
Mookie Salaam Joins Professional Ranks
June 27, 2011 | Track and Field
June 27, 2011
NORMAN, Okla. -- One of the most heralded sprinters in Oklahoma history, Mookie Salaam announced Monday that he will bypass his final year of eligibility with the Oklahoma Track and Field program as he signs with Adidas to begin his professional career with an eye towards the 2012 Olympics in London.
The announcement comes after a 2011 season that saw the Edmond, Okla., native win the 200-meter dash title at the NCAA Indoor Championships along with four Big 12 titles and four All-America honors.
Salaam leaves Oklahoma holding program records in the 100-meter dash (9.97), 200-meter dash (20.05), indoor 60-meter dash (6.54) and the indoor 200-meter dash (20.39). Salaam was named the 2011 Big 12 Performer of the Year during both the indoor and outdoor seasons after claiming two Big 12 titles in each season. Salaam leaves Oklahoma with seven All-America honors and 13 All-Big 12 honors.
"This truly is a blessing knowing where I came from and seeing where I'm at now. It really shows that all the hard work you put in pays off. All the off-season workouts, showing up every day and working hard. All that does pay off," said Salaam. "I loved my experience at OU; my teammates, my coaches, my fans, everyone that was with me for the ride. It's very exciting to represent OU on the collegiate level.
"Even though I'll be running for Adidas, the only thing changing is the name on the front of the uniform, I'll still be a Sooner at heart."
The multidisciplinary studies major is just one semester away from completing his degree requirements with plans to complete his studies at OU.
Oklahoma Director of Track and Field and Cross Country Martin Smith praised Salaam's decision.
"We are really happy for Mookie. This is a great opportunity for him to take the next step in his running career," said Smith. "This is something he's been looking forward to for a long time and we're glad he got this opportunity. We are certainly going to miss him because he did so many wonderful things for this program, but we look forward to his continued success on the next level."
Over the past weekend, Salaam finished seventh in the 200-meter dash at the USA Track and Field Championships.
Saturday, June 13
Friday, June 12
Thursday, June 11
Wednesday, June 10
