It seems Cerah Moren learned a thing or two during her June trip to Finland where she attended the famed “Javelin Carnival.”

The 13-year-old Turlocker put her newfound skills to the test last Thursday at the AAU Junior Olympics in Houston, Texas where she finished her 2012 season as the National Champion in Sub-Youth Javelin. After placing in the top eight in both 2009 and 2011, Moren claimed her first national title with a throw of 105 feet, 7 inches, beating out 39 competitors through six rounds.

“It felt good getting my first gold in that kind of event,” Cerah said. “The Finland trip really helped, I got a lot of really good tips from really good coaches on how to perfect the little things that matter.”

In addition to her first place finish in javelin, Cerah also medaled in discus with a sixth place throw of 94 feet, 10 inches, her first national discus medal of her short, yet impressive, track and field career.

Cerah was also accompanied by her father, Thad Moren, and 10-year-old brother, Jarod Moren, who competed in the Bantam High Jump and finished 43rd overall.

“It’s really fun to see how much they’re progressing and how they’re able to handle things on their own,” Thad said.

Cerah’s 2012 season might be over for now but she won’t be resting for long. She will soon be back on the track as an 8th grader at Turlock Junior High where she is expected to lead the Tigers’ track and field team.

“Next week I’ll be working out again and getting ready for the Jr. High season and the other tournaments my dad will be taking me to,” Cerah said.