Hokie Medals at Rio Olympics

History was made the evening of August 17, 2016, and a Virginia Tech Hokie was a direct contributor.  For the first time, in the Olympic Games, the United States women swept a track and field event.

Back in early July Gobbler Country shared that, Kristi Castlin, Virginia Tech's former All American track star (2007 - 2010) had qualified for the Olympics in the women's 100 meter hurdles event.  We also opined that she had a legitimate chance of earning a place on the podium.

During the first half of the race it looked as if Kristi was falling behind, but in the last stretch she found another gear and was able to pull into third place.  The finish was extremely close and required a moment of conference between the officials.  In the end it showed that Kristi had indeed edged out a medal.

Americans Brianna Rollins and Nia Ali finished in first and second place respectively, resulting in the American women's track and field team earning their first podium sweep in history.

Kristi is also the first Virginia Tech female athlete to ever earn a medal at the Olympics, for the United States!

Congratulations to Kristi, Brianna, and Nia on representing the United States (and the Virginia Tech Hokies!) in such a historical and exemplary manner!

Watch the monumental event, here.

Go Team USA!

Go Hokies!