Lolo Jones Making Impressive Recovery, Likely Olympic Bound: A Fan’s View

Track star Lolo Jones made her her first comeback at the 2012 U.S. Open Track & Field meet after a back injury and surgery.

The American hurdler made an impressive comeback, winning the 50-meter hurdles in only 6.78 seconds, beating out her British rival Tiffany Porter. Jones may have had a rough road to recovery, but she's back and better than ever. Jones hasn't let her injury or her surgeries crush her spirit or her strength.

The rough road of recovery

At only 29 years old, Jones has had a rough road to recovery. In 2011, Jones underwent surgery to repair her spinal cord. This very serious surgery was followed by grueling months of intense rehabilitation and physical therapy.

The track star shared the details of her recovery process with the media. "After surgery I couldn't do anything for a month," she said. "My first goal was to walk for 20 minutes. It's crazy how rehab is toning up everything and making it come together."

And come together she did. Despite the unfortunate trip and fall during the 2008 Beijing Olympics and finishing at a disappointing seventh place, Jones rocked the U.S. 2012 Track & Field meet, placing first in the 50-meter hurdles with an astonishing time of only 6.78 seconds. This time is impressive for any track runner, but especially so for one recovering from injuries and surgeries. The track star has made an impressive and rapid recovery.

Facing negativity

Jones has faced a lot of negativity and doubt throughout her career on the track. Even after her surgery, fans were skeptical that Jones would recover well enough to return to the sport. Even with the difficulties Jones has faced, she has remained incredibly optimistic, telling reporters, "I always use the downs to propel me for the ups. Hurdles aren't road blocks to me … they're opportunities."

Jones has showed an incredible amount of determination. Jones is one of the most promising prospects for the United States in the upcoming Olympic games. If Jones keeps up how she is, fans should expect to see the star competing in the Olympics later this year, and with any luck, she'll be bringing home a gold medal.

*Samantha Van Vleet is a former high school athlete and life long Olympics fan. She enjoys keeping up to date with sports news and is very anxious to see the 2012 Olympic games.

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