Purdue grad Kara Patterson focused on javelin - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Walking around Europe's largest mall, shoppers from all over the world cram the walkways. But Purdue Boilermaker Kara Patterson stands out as a two-time Olympian.

Eyewitness Sports pointed out that it's a long way from Purdue to the Olympics.

"Especially if you go by way of San Diego," she said. Kara graduated from Purdue in 2009 and moved to Chula Vista, California, where she's lived ever since.

"It's been kind of up and down since then. Really high and really low. This is somewhere in the middle. There are some tough things I'm dealing with but I'm really excited to be on my second Olympic team," she said.

Kara started in the sport when she was in high school. That led her to Purdue. She still holds the Purdue and American records in the javelin throw.

"I had awesome friends at Purdue. I did Boiler Goldrush, Mortarboard, and people from my nutrition classes as well as the athletics program. I know all these awesome people that are really excited I'm at the Olympics now so I get messages on Facebook a lot saying, 'I knew you when,'" she said.

Kara believes she has the potential to medal "but I know have to overcome some obstacles to do that. Physical things, just things you have to focus on. I think a lot of athletes come into the Olympics a little banged up. It's been a long four years and they really want it to be the best Olympics possible but it's the people who are tough enough, that battle through little injuries that come out on top in the end."

Kara is dealing with a knee injury and finishing in the top five would be a success, she said.

Eyewitness Sports provided Kara with a lucky charm: a Channel 13 Olympic pin.

"Awesome! It's gonna make the difference...Boiler up!" she laughed.