July 28, 2007

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil - Former Texas State track and field athlete Mike Hazle's throw of 75.33 meters won the silver medal in the men's javelin competition on Saturday at the 2007 Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Cuba's Guillermo Martinez took gold with a throw of 77.66 meters while Brazil's Alexon Maximiano won bronze after finishing just behind Hazel with a throw of 75.04 meters.

Hazle's throw set a season best for the Temple, Texas, native. He was also one of two Americans among the 10 competitors in the men's javelin event along with Washington native Justin St. Clair, who finished seventh.

Hazle will also look to replicate his success next month at the 2007 IAAF World Championships in Osaka, Japan, from August 25 to September 2.

The 25th Pan American Games, which includes competitors from North and South America and the Caribbean, conclude on Sunday, July 29. For more information on the games, visit www.rio2007.org.br.