March 26, 2008

MACON, Ga. - The Atlantic Sun Conference named Kennesaw State throwing specialist Joshua McNair the Men's Outdoor Track Athlete of the Week on Wednesday afternoon. This marks the first time that McNair has been honored with a weekly track award.

At the Clemson Relays, the sophomore broke three KSU throwing records. In the discus he took first place and made an NCAA Regional qualifying mark of 169-10.0ft. McNair also broke into the top five in the shot put and hammer throw. In the shot put he placed second with a throw of 51-11.00ft and in the hammer throw he took home fifth place with a distance of 169-11.00ft.

"It's my goal to make three NCAA qualifying marks in a single meet," said McNair. "I knew that I could do it with the discus. Now all I have to do is focus on the shot and the hammer."

The Hinesville native has had an outstanding 2008 track season. At the A-Sun Indoor Conference Championship his first place finishes in the shot put and the weight throw earned the Owls 20 points and helped the team gain their first conference title.

"Josh is a critical part to this team and one of the best athletes that I have ever coached," said field coach Mike Goss. "He is one of the smallest throwers in the conference, but his speed, athleticism and work ethic makes him a champion."

McNair and the Owls will be back in action this weekend as they travel to Tuscaloosa, Ala., to compete in the University of Alabama Relays.