Patterson continues assault on U.S. javelin record book

Kara Patterson’s string of world-class performances continued Thursday, this time in Monaco.

Patterson, a graduate of Skyview High School, recorded the third-best throw in American history in the women’s javelin, finishing in second place at a Diamond League meet in the tiny city-state located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Diamond League constitutes the top tier of competition on the world track and field circuit. But the real eye-opener is that in a 27-day span, Patterson has recorded the three best throws in U.S. history — or at least since the current javelin came into use in 1986.

“I really wanted to win today,” Patterson, 24, wrote in an e-mail interview. “I’m satisfied with second place when all is said and done, but I’m kind of excited about the fact that I’m expecting more from myself.”

On June 25, Patterson set the American record by throwing 218 feet, 8 inches, in winning her third straight national championship. The following week, she threw 216-2 in winning the Prefontaine Classic.

Thursday’s throw of 210-8 was second behind the mark of 215-9 by world-record holder Barbora Spotakova of the Czech Republic, but it was good for third on the all-time U.S. list.

Patterson qualified for the Olympics in 2008 and the World Championships in 2009, yet failed to reach the finals at each meet. So far this season, she is ranked fifth in the world.

“I realize I’m somewhat new on the (successful) international scene,” she wrote Thursday. “But when my last throw didn’t go as far as I wanted, I was slightly upset. Can’t get complacent.”