In 2007, senior Alysia Johnson set the stage for her breakthrough onto the national track and field scene by winning the NCAA indoor championships in the 800m dash.

This past weekend she headed out to Fayetteville, Ark., to defend her title and cement her status as a legitimate contender to make the 2008 U.S. Olympic squad.

Everything was going to plan until Johnson was challenged by Latavia Thomas of LSU on the final backstretch of the race.

"She was in control most of the race, actually coming off the turn she had about a five yard lead," coach Tony Sandoval said.

The lead proved to be insufficient as Thomas surged to a first-place finish.

"It was just unfortunate (how) it happened. She ran her race and was in control except for the last 25 yards," Sandoval said.