DAVID HUNTER, Post Contributor
Posted: Sunday, July 11, 2010 5:10 am

Donovan Harkins became the latest Murfreesboro resident to qualify for the Hershey’s Track and Field Games North American Final meet on Aug. 7.

Harkins was one of five athletes that will represent the state of Tennessee in the event. He will compete in the 800 meters in the 11 and 12 age division. The other four representatives are from Clarksville and Chattanooga.

“I think we got a good team going to the final,” Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Athletic Coordinator Thomas Laird said. “I hope that Donovan will shine. Hopefully we will have the same result like in the past.”

Murfreesboro has had at least one athlete advance to the North America Final in four out of the past five years. Joy Frierson became the girls 13- and 14-year-old champion in the 100-meter dash.

“I have no doubt that Donovan will be ready,” Laird said.

Currently, Harkins is preparing for the upcoming event.

“I think that we have given him the tools to be successful,” Laird said. “Now it comes down to the mental game.”

Harkins time has improved in each of the three previous meets this season. His mark at the state meet was a 2:46.29. However, last year’s winning time at the North American Final was 2:16.90.

Harkins will compete against athletes ranging in age from 9 to 14 from all around North America.