UNC senior Kenny Selmon claimed the national championship Saturday in the 400-meter hurdles at the USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships, after posting a time of 48.21 seconds–the second-fastest time of his career.

The win also secures Selmon a spot on Team USA.

He and teammate Nicole Green–a high-jumper who won a national title earlier this season–become the first Tar Heels to do so since Justin Ryncavage won the NCAA javelin title in 2007.

“Just the race itself, I am just so proud,” Selmon said afterwards. “I’ve been waiting to be a part of the UNC University of National Champions. I wanted to be able to call myself a national champion so it’s an honor to do that in my last race in a UNC uniform. It has been really cool so I’m feeling really great. I’m feeling amazing actually.”

Selmon finishes his college career as a five-time ACC champion and a five-time All-American as well, placing himself as one of the most decorated athletes in the program’s history.

“It’s been an amazing journey for Kenny,” UNC head coach Harlis Meaders said. “I’m super excited to see him become a USA senior national champion in his final meet as a collegiate. What a perfect way to go out and to start the next phase of his track and field career. USA championships is one of the hardest championships to win. Again, he still ranks among the top eight in the world in this particular event.” 

 

Photo via UNC Athletics

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