PRESS RELEASE
Mashdots College
411 E. Acacia Avenue
Glendale, CA 91205
Contact Person: Sofi Boyle
Telephone: (818) 548-9345
Fax: (818) 548-9342
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: mashdotscollege.org
JOHNNY DER-YEGHIAYAN, ARMENIAN WORLD’S FASTEST RUNNER AND DOUBLE GOLD-MEDALIST
Johnny Der-Yeghiayan of La Verne, California, captured the hearts?of
thousands of Armenians gathered this week?in Yerevan from 94 cities of
the world to witness the 4th Pan Armenian Games. Not only his superb
athletic talents?captivated their attention, but he also won two gold
medals for the 100-meter and 200-meter track and field competition
edging well-known champions.?He represented Homenetmen’s Ararat
chapter.
Der-Yeghiayan was a premiere sprinter on the Point Loma Nazarene
University’s track and field team during his undergraduate years. As
the team’s MVP, he set personal records in the 100m, 200m and his
4x400m relay split earning bids to the NAIA Track and Field
Championships. He has participated in numerous national and
international competitions winning numerous gold medals.
Born in La Verne, California, Der-Yeghiayan says he grew up
skateboarding. From age five until he hit 13, he competed in numerous
competitions until rollerblading caught his interest. Der-Yeghiayan
was offered a sponsorship which he declined, and as high school
started, wrestling took over as his new love. In his weight class,
Der-Yeghiayan was undefeated for two seasons, but torn ligaments in
his ankle and the constant demands of making weight led him to look at
track for his next and final athletic endeavor.
Der-Yeghiayan, a devout Christian,?holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in
Youth Ministry and Church Music from Point Loma Nazarene University
and a Master’s degree in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary in
Pasadena. During his television?interviews in Armenia, he credited God
for his successes praising His name as the sole source for his
accomplishments.?Currently, he serves the Armenian Church of the
Nazarene in Pasadena as Youth Pastor. He is the son of Dr. Garbis and
Angela Der-Yeghiayan.