The LSU track and field team will recognize the accomplishments of 18 seniors Saturday during the 5,000-meter races at the LSU Alumni Gold meet in Bernie Moore Track Stadium.
LSU coach Dennis Shaver said the seniors have contributed to the success of the track and field program over the last four or five years and the tribute will celebrate their time at LSU.
“It’s a special time for them. It’s their last time competing at Bernie Moore as a collegiate with LSU across their chest,” Shaver said. “They’re proud of the fact that they’ve been here. It gives us an opportunity to show them an appreciation.”
Shaver said the meet also gives the coaches the opportunity to recognize how their athletes developed as a whole.
“It gives you an opportunity as coaches to reflect … [on] how they’ve developed and how they’ve contributed to community service and earning their degrees here, which is ultimately what they’re here to do anyway,” Shaver said.
Shaver also said that with Bowerman Award-winning senior sprinter Kimberlyn Duncan being recognized on Saturday, it will be exciting for the fans because she is the first to bring the award to LSU.
Duncan said Saturday will be an emotional time for her but she’s enjoyed her time at LSU overall.
“It’s been a legit fun experience being here,” Duncan said. “I’ve had a great time here. I’m just happy to be a part of the LSU track and field program.”
Although Saturday marks her last time competing for LSU at Bernie Moore, Duncan said it won’t be her last time running at LSU.
“Once I graduate here and go pro, God willing, I’m going to come back and train here under Coach Shaver,” Duncan said. “I won’t be able to wear LSU on my chest as far as competing, but I’ll still be here training. I’m not ready to leave. I know I have to, they’re kicking me out, but I’ll still be around.”
Senior jumper Damar Forbes said he’s had a lot of ups and downs and has grown athletically and personally, so Saturday will be bittersweet for him. Forbes said he’s hoping to perform well because it is his final meet competing for LSU.
“I feel like I’ve been here a long time,” Forbes said. “Hopefully it will be nice weather and I can give everyone in the stands something to cheer about.”
