Photo: Tim Valencia
Athlete Profile: Jose van der Veen
- Event: 400m, 800m
- Physical: 5'8", 130 lbs
- Personal Best: 54.60, 2:03.67
- Country: Netherlands
- College: University of Texas at El Paso
- Coach: Paul Wernert
- Sponsor: Spira; Tolman Toyota
- Career Highlights:
- Ranked first in the Netherlands in 2007
- Ran personal best in 2007 in Papendal
- 3rd 800 European Cup 2007- Finland
- Member of Dutch 4x400 team
Personal: Jose van der Veen was born in the city of Drachten, Netherlands on March 26, 1980. She earned an undergraduate degree in Public Relations and Marketing at the University of Texas at El Paso and graduated with an MBA in International Business in 2005. Jose began her athletic career at the age of ten when she joined a local track club. At fifteen she was selected to train with the Dutch National Junior Middle Distance Program. Twice she earned the title "Dutch National 400 meter Champion." These accomplishments earned her a scholarship to the University of Texas at El Paso. Overall, Jose's plan for her track career is to represent the Netherlands while competing at European Championships, World University Games and to earn a gold medal at the 2008 Olympics. When she is not focusing on her track goals, Jose speaks to schools and civic organizations about her country as an International Ambassador for the Netherlands. She is currently working as a Brand Manager for Spira at the World headquarters in El Paso, Texas.
