Walnut, CA – As the 2024 Paris Olympics unfold, Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC) is once again making its mark on the global stage with its exceptional track and field alumni. Known for their athletic program and producing world-class athletes, Mt. SAC is celebrating the impressive achievements of its former track and field stars who are participating in this year’s Olympic Games.

Among the standout alumni representing Mt. SAC in Paris are Kyree King, who will be competing in the 4X100m Relay for Team USA on August 8, and John Bolton, who coached Fred Kerley to a bronze medal in the 100m. Their journeys from Hilmer Lodge stadium to the Olympic arena exemplify the dedication and talent nurtured at Mt. SAC.

Kyree King competed for Mt. SAC Track and Field in 2013 and 2014, participating in the 4X100m relay, 4X400m relay, 60m, 100m, 200m, 300m, and 400m. He competed in the state championships for multiple events both years. King then went on to compete at Western Kentucky University from 2015 to 2016. There he was a member of the 4X100 relay team that made a notable appearance at the 2016 NCAA Outdoor Championships, securing a 5th place finish, and he was the 2016 Conference USA champion in the 100m. His standout performance in the 200m at the NCAA Championships earned him All-American honors, further solidifying his reputation as a top athlete.

King then went on to compete for University of Oregon in 2017, in which he won Pac-12 100m and 200m titles, setting a new school record in the 100m. He was also named Pac-12 Men’s Track Athlete of the Year. He took home two gold medals at the Mt. SAC Relays for 100m and 200m. Some of King’s other achievements include winning a silver medal at the 2022 NACAC Championships, reaching the semifinals at the 2024 USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, and competing for Team USA at the 2024 World Athletics Relays. He also happened to be coached by John Bolton while at Mt. SAC in 2013 and 2014.   

John Bolton’s tenure at Mt. SAC included several exceptional achievements. Under his guidance, both the men’s and women’s track and field teams clinched South Coast Conference titles, showcasing his expertise in developing top-tier athletes. His contributions were recognized with seven South Coast Conference Assistant Coach of the Year awards (2014,2015,2016,2017,2019,2022,2023), and the prestigious California Community College Athletic Associate Coach of the Year accolade in 2016.

During his time at Mt. SAC, Bolton mentored 15 athletes who qualified for the U.S. Trials and coached 44 athletes to state champion titles, with over 50 athletes advancing to the NCAA ranks. Bolton’s record as the winningest track and field coach in California Junior College history speaks volumes about his dedication and success. In addition to nurturing 15 individual sprint champions, he guided 12 relay teams to state titles, demonstrating his expertise in both individual and team events. Bolton now serves as the assistant coach for sprints at USC and he continues to shape the future of track and field.

Mt. SAC's track and field program, under the guidance of Giovanni Lanaro and Jenna Bird and supported by a dedicated coaching staff, has long been a hub for elite athletes. The college’s state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to athlete development have helped propel numerous students to national and international success.

The achievements of these alumni at the Paris Olympics highlight Mt. SAC’s continued legacy of excellence in track and field. As these athletes compete on the world’s biggest stage, they carry with them the pride and support of their alma mater and the entire Mt. SAC community.

For more information about Mt. SAC Athletics and its track and field program, please visit Mt. SAC Athletics.