AU's Jaynes finishes fifth in 10K, becomes an all-American

Staff report

Augusta University track standout Avery Jaynes became the first-ever Jaguar all-American in outdoor track and field on Thursday, May 22, when he took fifth place in the 10,000 meters in Pueblo, Colo.

Jaynes ran the 10,000 meters at altitude in a time of 29 minutes, 55.56 seconds at the Colorado State-Pueblo Thunderbowl Stadium.

“To be able to get that special honor and earn zll-American feels surreal,” Jaynes said. “It’s really the top mark to go for when it comes to competing in college, and I just feel blessed to be able to say I have achieved that. Being able to share this moment with friends, family, my coach and my team means the world to me. None of this would have been possible without them by my side.”

Race favorite William Amponsah of West Texas A&M was the winner in 29:29.41.

Avery, the Southeast Bulloch High School product, will now run in the 5,000 meters on Saturday, May 24.

Note: Photo above is of Avery Jaynes on the podium. (photo by Sam Viebrock/special to the Bell Ringer)

AU distance runner Avery Jaynes (at right) holds his all-American plaque with Jaguar track and field coach Jacob Burgamy. (photo by David-Tracy Jaynes/special to the Bell Ringer)