Olympic runner Lauryn Williams turns pro

SACRAMENTO, July 15 (UPI) -- Newly qualified U.S. Olympic sprinter Lauryn Williams says money is the reason she's decided to turn pro right away, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said.

"You know what they say: Strike when the iron is hot," the University of Miami junior said. "I could run in college another year, but what if I get hurt?"

Shortly after Williams finished third in the 100 meters at the U.S. track and field trials, she signed a contract to be represented by noted agent Ray Flynn. That means she cannot return to NCAA track although she is free to return to Miami to complete her degree in finance.

"I'm coming off a perfect year at my school, and that's part of what makes it so tough to leave the program," Williams said, referring to her NCAA championship and 9-0 record in the 100 meters for the Hurricanes last season.

Williams' first chance to make money will come with a July 30 meet in London. She will run in another pro event in Zurich, Switzerland, a week later before flying to Athens to begin preparations for the Olympics.