As the No. 2-ranked javelin thrower in the country in his age group, 16-year-old Chris Smith had two goals he wanted to achieve Friday when he competed in the National Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympics in Knoxville, Tenn.

“I wanted to throw 170 feet and win it,” he said.

While Chris, a junior at Lawrence High, fell three inches short of his goal, his throw of 169 feet, 9 inches was a personal best. Unfortunately, that effort was bested by the No. 1-ranked javelin thrower in his age group, who threw a record-breaking 187-2 to win, putting Smith in second place.

Chris said he could have done better if it weren’t for some high temperatures and humidity that affected his performance.

“The sun was just draining us,” he said.

Chris’ father, Sam, also made the trip to Knoxville to show support for his son. Sam doubles as one of Chris’ coaches. But Sam said his son’s interest in throwing the javelin didn’t come from him.

“I was a runner (in high school), but he wanted to throw the javelin,” Sam Smith said. “So I learned and tried to teach him as best I could.”

Chris said he became interested in the sport because it allowed him to compete in an event that is different from other sports.

“I thought it was interesting that I was good at throwing something pointy and dangerous,” he said.

While Chris had personal goals that he wanted to accomplish at the Junior Olympics, which he worked for every day, his father didn’t put any added pressure on his son.

“I’ve just always wanted him to do the best he can,” his father said. “He’s just got a real talent throwing the javelin.”

While his son fell short of accomplishing his goals, Sam said Chris could take pride in achieving a personal record and his second-place finish.

“My son did very, very well,” he said. “I’m just as proud as can be.”

Next up for Chris, he will soon resume his school activities and begin preparing for track season. In the summer months he practiced four days a week, and this fall he will continue throwing and lifting weights. Chris added that while he was disappointed he didn’t come away with a first-place finish, he already has set new goals for himself this year for LHS.

“I’m hoping to win or get close to winning at state,” he said.