Gaffigan took the U.S. by surprise after she set an American record at the time in the womens steeplechase to win the 2004 Olympic Trials. Gaffigan began competing in the steeple her freshman year at Nebraska at the suggestion of her coach. She had solid year in 2003 as a member of the Husker's distance team, picking up points at the Big 12 Championships in the mile run and the distance medley relay indoors and the 3,000m steeplechase outdoors. She graduated with a 3.88 GPA in computer science and is a volunteer assistant track coach for Nebraska.
Athletic Achievements
2004 Olympic Trials champion
2004 Big 12 champion
Two-time Illinois High School Class AA 3,200m champion (98 & 00)
