Bermuda’s up-and-coming track and field star Raelyn Robinson has qualified for the Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympics, scheduled for Greater Des Moines, Iowa, from July 27 to August 8.

Robinson punched her ticket to the elite youth competition after finishing third at the AAU Jackie Joyner-Kersee National Track and Field Showcase in St Louis, Missouri, this past weekend.

“It was awesome and fun, I’m really grateful that I got to run with some of the fastest girls in the United States,” Robinson said.

“I’m excited for the AAU Junior Olympics. It’s going to be some really fast girls, but I’m still excited.”

The 8-year-old clinched bronze in the 200 metres, gold in the long jump and bronze in the 100, which saw her receive an AAU All-American title.

Based on her placing within the top six in a regional event, Robinson qualified to compete in all three events at the AAU Junior Olympics.

During the event’s official opening ceremony on Saturday, the Saltus Grammar School student was acknowledged as the only competitor from Bermuda when the athletes had a march around the track.

After the procession, the participants were greeted and addressed by Jackie Joyner-Kersee, an Olympic record holder.

Robinson’s parents, who were present when their daughter qualified, were pleased with her performance over three days.

“Raelyn’s qualification for the AAU Junior Olympics is a testament to her hard work and passion,” the parents said.

“She loves athletics and we’re so thrilled to support her journey along the way. We’re overjoyed and eager to cheer her on at the Junior Olympics.”

Last month, Raelyn and her sister Reyna won a combined six medals at the Abu Dhabi Champions.