Once the most promising middle distance talent in the country, and
regarded as a heiress to Mary Decker's vacant throne, Hamilton had
difficulties adapting from her college career to that of a star of the
international circuit. Not that Suzy hasn't had her share of successes. She
won national titles, she made it to the Olympics in Barcelona in 1992, she
was at times dominant on the national scene, winning important races,
including twice the women's mile at the L.A. Invitational.
But that was not what people had expected from a runner who had promised so much in college. Suzy finished her career at Wisconsin with a record 9 NCAA titles, including 4 straight 1500 crowns and a 800/1500 double in her senior year, but her improvement since she graduated in 1990 hasn't met the expectations.
Perhaps those expectations were too high. Suzy has yet to prove herself in a big international meet, and the Olympics in Atlanta might be her breakthrough. Last year, after a few so-so seasons, Hamilton regained contact with the international elite. She ran a lifetime best 1:58.74 in the 800 meters, the 2nd fastest time by an American, and the 10th fastest time in the world. She also ran her best time in three years in the 1500 meters (4:05.14), also the second fastest time by a U.S. woman (only 0.1 of a second behind veteran Ruth Wysocki).
At the beginning of the Olympic year, the L.A. Invitational could offer a good indication if her numerous fans would see a "new", more aggressive and more focused Suzy.
High school events start at 10 a.m., the Invitational at 5 p.m. Reserved tickets are on sale at the Sports Arena Box Office (213) 748-6131, and Ticketmaster outlets. For additional information about the meet including entry information, schedule of events, group sales, etc.) call 310-535-9230 or dial in to L.A. Invitational web site at http://home.earthlink.net/~worldsports/