Rocklin, Calif. – Senior Anthony "Tony" Villarreal joined the William Jessup University Track team dreaming of the opportunity to run at the NAIA Outdoor Track and Field National Championship.   After four  years of dedication, hard work and pain, Villarreal's dream came true as he qualified for the 2013 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field National Championship Marathon race.  Coach Parker Daniells and Anthony will leave next week for 2013 National Championships, which will be held on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana May 23^rd-25^th.

Villarreal, a native of Fresno, qualified with a B standard time of 1:13:50.84 at the River City Half Marathon in Folsom on March 10^th.  The NAIA classifies the A standard time at 1:13:00.00, while the B standard time to qualify is between 1:13:00.00 and 1:15:00.00.  Villarreal will compete against Seventy-four runners from around the country at 6:00am eastern standard time on Saturday May 25^th.  He is the third Warriors track and field athlete in school history to earn a trip to nationals.

Tony is thankful for the opportunity to compete one last time in a Warrior's track uniform.

"This is a great opportunity and accomplishment thanks to two wonderful coaches whom instilled courage, direction and inspiration in my running career," stated Villarreal. "Teammates have supported and encouraged me throughout the season, which in turn has impacted how I train. I am blessed and thankful for this incredible opportunity to represent Jessup and Christ at the NAIA nationals in Indiana."

Coach Daniells:  "It has been great to watch Tony progress so naturally in his running career through college as well as his spiritual growth in his personal life. Tony has been very patient this year with preparing for the marathon which is the mentality you need to have to compete in this race. These past three weeks of training have really showed the work he has put in as well what we can expect at nationals."

The Warrior community stands behind Tony as he fulfills his dream.