May 30, 2008

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - Junior Brie Felnagle was recently named one of four finalists for the 2007-2008 Track and Field Honda Sports Award, recognizing the top track and field athlete in the nation. Felnagle is joined by fellow nominees Jacquelyn Johnson of Arizona State, Alysia Johnson of California and Sally Kipyego of Texas Tech. The winner after nationwide balloting will become a candidate for The Honda-Broderick Cup awarded annually to the Collegiate Woman Athlete of the Year.

Felnagle is a three-time national champion to go along with six All-America honors, including this past indoor season where she placed second in the 3000-meter run. The Tacoma, Wash. native has also laid her claim as one of the top track athletes in the Atlantic Coast Conference claiming six individual titles. Felnagle took a pair at the recent outdoor championships by winning the 1500-meter run along with the 5000-meter run.

The junior owns a pair of school records in the indoor distance medley relay in 2007 and the outdoor 1500-meter run which she accomplished just a few weeks ago. Felnagle ran the fastest time in the country to date when she clocked a 4:08.54 at the UNC Elite Meet. Felnagle's time is currently one of the fastest heading into next month's Olympic Trials.

American Honda will donate $1,000 to the women's athletic fund of each nominee's university. The winner's program will receive $5,000.