June 30, 2008

Eugene, Ore. - The 2008 Olympic dream ended Monday for former Southeast Missouri State sprinter Miles Smith who placed 12th in the 400-meters at the Olympic trials. Only the top eight advance to Thursday's finals and a spot on the U.S. Olympic team.

Smith, running in a heat filled with Olympians from the 2004 USA team, finished sixth in his heat with a time of 46.32. The heat was won by Olympic gold medalist Jeremy Wariner who timed 44.66.

A five-time All-American at Southeast, Smith will now join the professional track circuit in Europe beginning in early August.

"Miles can concentrate on making money now," said Southeast coach Joey Haines. "To rank in the top 12 in the nation after his injury is quite an accomplishment. He should be at his prime for the 2012 Olympics in London."