This year, track is back and is expected to have another great season. Previous season they had a total of six meets. They were able to win three of the six. They will be competing in six meets this season, all of which will take place at HP with the exception of one that will take place at South Gate High School.
The team also has a goal for the upcoming season
“The team’s goal this year is to make it to city finals and be more productive than last year,” says Matthew Espinoza, junior and track member.
The number of track members this season is still undecided. The teams coaches are Coach Bonsteel and Coach Espinoza. The team also has different captains for the different categories. Genevie Calderon for mid-distance, Karla Gonzalez and Issac Navarro for sprints, and co-captain Briana Alba for long-distance runners.
At these meets, students compete against one another in a variety of events to accumulate as many points as possible so their school can win. There are several different competitive events included in it, including sprints, hurdles, long and mid distances races, long jump, high jump and shot put.
Throughout these events, students can showcase their best athletic qualities such as speed, endurance, and strength. Based on their own preferences and what they feel comfortable doing, students are free to select the number of events and which ones they would like to compete in.
During their races, the top four finishers receive two points each, while third and fourth-place finishers receive three points. All of the points that each school earned during the race, as well as the times, are added up at the end of the meet to determine which school had the highest scores.
Even though competing in these events can be extremely difficult and exhausting. “The feeling to finish and being able to lay on the track after,” stated Co-captain Alba, is what keeps her motivated to continue running.
The track team has developed a supportive environment in which all players can relate to one another and challenge one another. Small activities like eating out, attending JKL every Wednesday, and having fun Fridays help them maintain and grow their bond as a team.
Although being a part of track also includes having to work hard at all times it’s still an activity that many enjoy.
“It’s a fun sport but it does require a lot of hard work and dedication. Even then I would still recommend people to join because you are able to join a team where you get support,” said Espinoza
Written by Stefany Sanchez, Staff Writer