The school’s track and field team has begun training for the start of season, March 20, that will take place at the school’s new and improved field.
“The events vary from runs on the track to events on the field,” sophomore James Akindele said. “An example of a track event is the 100m, and something such as high jump would be considered a field event.”
Track and field offers multiple events for members to compete in. These events vary from the 200 meter run to field events such as shot-put. Each member of the team typically specializes in two or three events, where they can showcase their unique skills.
“Now that we have access to a track again, there’s a sense of determination among us,” senior Basilio Reyes said. “We push each other to improve, but we’re also really supportive of each other.”
This year, the school has improved conditions after the team was left to practice without a track for the 2024 season. Returning runners feel a renewed sense of motivation being able to run on a proper track. With an optimistic point of view, the team brings a boosted sense of energy as they strive for better results each practice.
“We’re all giving [our] 100% effort most of the time,” sophomore John Akindele said.
The work ethic of the track team helps them perfect their craft and do the training that they do daily. Their constant efforts help them reinforce their strength and endurance. Each runner requires different styles of training, and each person makes sure to follow the best regimen for their own events.
“During training you stay motivated and focused because the people around you are in the same boat as you,” junior Grace Ramadan said. “You feel accountable for doing the workout when there’s other people around watching.”
Training together helps them create chemistry with each other that will last for a long time as their time spent working out together gets them to motivate each other to be better for the season.
“It’s great [being on the team],” John said. “We’re all a big family.”
In order to make sure they are always improving and performing well, the members make sure to support each other in any way they can, even if they run different events. Inspiration and dedication is the key to keeping their stamina and hopes high as they continue to prepare for their upcoming meets.
“[Practice for] the season started a couple months ago, and so far, things are going great,” Reyes said.
