MARBURG, Germany - University of Colorado volunteer assistant track and field coach Emily Pearson placed fourth at the Thorpe Cup, an annual combined events dual meet between the U.S. and Germany.

Pearson recorded a personal best 5,611 points in the women's heptathlon and the top four spots where claimed by American athletes. Bettie Wade won the gold medal with 5,984 points, Ryan Krais was second (5,779) and Abbie Stechschulte was third (5,755). Germany's top performer was Christina Kiffe. She recorded 5,607 points for fifth place overall.

In total, the U.S. team recorded 17,518 points to win the meet, compared to Germany's 14,182. This is just the second time the U.S. women have won the event in the five year history of the meet for the women. The men's competition has been around a little longer as this was the 17^th meeting between the two teams.

Pearson, a 2009 Colorado State graduate, was not the only Buff at the meet. CU assistant track and field coach Lindsey Malone was selected to serve as an assistant coach for the women's team and coached Pearson to the personal best. Malone has been coaching Pearson since 2004.

"This was a tremendous effort by the women's team and the first win for the U.S. in several years," Malone said. "Representing team USA is an enormous honor for each of us and I couldn't be happier with the win. The fact that Emily and I were able to share this makes it even more special. I am truly awed by the experience and thankful to USATF for this opportunity."

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