The next destination for Chadron State College’s remarkable long jumper Damarcus Simpson is San Jose, Costa Rica.

He has been selected to represent the United States in the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association Championships on Aug. 7-9. There are 31 nations in the association.

Chadron State head track and field coach Brad Gamble was notified of the decision early this week. He said the Eagles’ jump coach, John Ritzen, will accompany Simpson to Costa Rica.

This summer, Simpson is living with his uncle and aunt, Rodney and Jennifer Simpson, in Chattanooga, Tenn. He said he is working out at a nearby high school, trying to keep in shape for the competition.

Gamble and Ritzen have sent him a workout schedule.

As a freshman this past school year, Simpson set Chadron State records in the long jump both indoors and outdoors and the 60-meter dash and triple jump indoors. He also earned All-American honors in both long jumps and the 60 at the NCAA Division II National Championships.

He placed second in the long jump at the indoor championships by going 25-4.5, won the gold medal at the outdoor championships at 26-3.75 and placed seventh among 19 elite jumpers at the USA Track and Field Outdoor Nationals on June 25 at 26-4.25.

Gamble said Simpson had at least one jump at the Outdoor Nationals of around 27 feet, but scratched on it.

“I think the meet in Costa Rica will be just right for Damarcus,” Gamble said. “It will give him another chance to jump against exceptional competition, something he’s already proven he can handle very capably.”