University of California-Berkeley freshman Zhang Jinjing, declared ineligible by the NCAA earlier this season, was recently cleared to compete and took full advantage of the opportunity. Zhang, who was fourth all-around at the 1996 Olympics and the 1997 world champion on parallel bars, won the all-around at the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Championships, March 22 in Colorado Springs.

Zhang's 55.275 far surpassed the 53.85 posted by runner-up Daniel Furney of Oklahoma. Cal's David Eaton place third 53.625. Oklahoma won the team competition with 219.225, with Cal second at 217.200.

Prior to his recent reinstatement, Zhang had been unable to compete because he had reportedly accepted money as a member of the Chinese national team.

Cal head coach Barry Weiner would not divulge the details of the situation to IG. "I can only say this," Weiner began. "Jinjing is a wonderful man and he's committed to our program, and we are certainly committed to him."

California and Oklahoma are among the 12 teams that will meet in Norman, Okla., next Thursday for the NCAA Championships. IG Online will do live coverage of the men's NCAA Championships.