CASTRO VALLEY, CA — Don't be surprised when the name Janet Criss pops up at the next Olympic Games.
Just 14, the East Bay teen is making a name for herself on the track and across the country, according to a KTVU report.
She's currently the No. 1-ranked middle schooler in both California and the county for the 100-meter. She attended Canyon Middle School in Castro Valley, where she had a time of 11.60 in the 100-meter, breaking a local meet record, according to the report.
She was a standout at the Nike Outdoor Nationals in Eugene, Oregon, last month, and broke her own record last week at the AAU Track & Field West Coast National Championship, according to the report.
Her personal best came on May 30 when she ran an 11.67 at the West Coast Classic Track and Field Invitational, according to MileSplit.
Now, Janet is on her way to the Junior Olympics in Southern California in late July. An online fundraiser has been started to help the teen's family offset the costs of travel, competition costs and other accommodations.
"Every donation, no matter the amount, helps Janet continue pursuing her dream of competing against the best athletes in the country while representing her family, her community, and the state of California with pride," the fundraiser reads.
The fundraiser has raised $1,035 out of its $3,500 goal as of Friday.
"Thank you for believing in Janet and investing in a young athlete whose dedication, humility, and work ethic continue to inspire everyone around her," according to the fundraiser. "Your support truly makes a difference."
Read more from KTVU.
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