Jacksonville University track and field student-athlete Mariandree Chacon was named to the Olympic roster for Guatemala.
Chacon will represent her home country in the summer Olympics in the 100-meter dash. She is the first woman from her country to compete in the 100-meter in 52 years and is the only female track athlete the country is sending to Paris.
"We are incredibly proud of Mariandree for making the Guatemalan Olympic team," Jacksonville University director of track and field Bambi Brundage said. "Her journey has been a testament to her perseverance and hard work. This achievement is not just a reflection of her talent but also of her relentless effort and resilience. I am thrilled and excited to see her compete on the Olympic Stage."
A rising junior, Chacon is a four-time National champion. During her sophomore campaign, Chacon was part of the 4x100 relay group which was an Atlantic Sun East Coast Regional Qualifier. At the ASUN championships, Chacon's 4x100 group posted a time of 44.32, tying the ASUN championship record, breaking the facility record and solidifying a spot in the East Preliminary First Round of the NCAA Championship.
Individually, Chacon was a qualifier for the ASUN championships in the 100m and finished fifth in the 200m. Her championship pedigree from the past season and national finishes helped her qualify for Olympic competition.
"It is very exciting to know that I will compete in the Olympic Games because it is the largest stage where an athlete can participate," Chacon said. "Representing my country is a great joy. I am grateful for God, my family and my coaches. We each play an important role in this process. I am also grateful for the Jacksonville University track and field program for helping me in this journey, shaping me as a person, athlete and student."
As a freshman, Chacon finished in the top-20 at the World U20 Championship. At the Central American Championships in El Salvador on June 29, 2024, Chacon finished second in the 200.
In 2022, Chacon set a national record for her U22 performance in the 100, posting a time of 11.66.
Women's preliminary qualifiers begin Aug. 2.
