Vashti Cunningham made history on Sunday as she clinched a spot in the 2016 Rio Olympics for the high jump and subsequently became one of the youngest U.S. Olympians in track and field since 1980.
Despite becoming the youngest Olympian athlete in the sport in almost 40 years, Cunningham is not short of athletic pedigree, being the daughter of former NFL quarterback Randall Cunningham. Despite not finishing in first place, she was more than happy that she has punched her ticket to the Rio Olympic Games.
“To be able to go to the Olympics, I’m more happy than disappointed about finishing second,” said Cunningham, who received tips from her father and coach during the competition and then a hug afterward. “I always want to win, but this is something that will hit me on the head and make me work harder. I’ve got more motivation for Rio.”
Cunningham came in second place behind Chaunte Lowe, a high jump veteran who has competed on three Olympic teams (2004, 2008, and 2012 Summer Olympics). Inika McPherson finished third behind Lowe and Cunningham and all three will represent the U.S. high jump team in Rio.
Cunningham has a good chance to win a medal at the Rio Olympics. Earlier this year she won the Gold Medal in the high jump at the World Indoor Championships in Portland.