Track and Field is a multi sporting event that consists in running, jumping, and throwing. When asked about the reason why they joined in the first place, many people said that it was through the encouragement of the people around them.
”I had a bunch of friends that were already doing it, and they said I should try it because I was super fast. I didn’t really want to at first, but there were so many people already doing it so I just tried it.” Xavier Adams (‘25) said. “My brother was the one who first got me into it. Back then I was only doing the musical, so I wanted to find something to do other than that.” Islynn Nyanyo (‘24) said. “ My friends, because they wanted me to join in with them. I also used it as a way for me to stay active, and go outside.” Elizabeth New (‘25) said. My cousin, because she runs track for Kentucky. She was always fast as a kid so I wanted to be faster than her.” Anthony Keller (‘24) said.
Each event requires a different skill set in order to be successful in each sport. “I think a good mental attitude is really important if you do distance. It is equally a mental sport as it is a physical one.” Ryan Bushart (‘25) said. “For discus and shot pot you definitely need to have balance. You also need to be a bit stronger and be willing to get stronger and stronger as you go. Also listen to directions and be open to suggestions for improvement, because there is a lot of form that goes into throwing.” Nyanyo said. “The number one thing for any sport is always confidence. The second thing I would say is explosiveness, and just being able to get out of there. Other than that, having a good and healthy body will take you a long way.” Keller said.
Although many of the athletes compete in similar events, they each have their own moments that stick out in their minds as being their favorite. “Freshman year going into sophomore year I competed in the junior olympics. I was able to hit a personal record of 44.3 inches that got me ninth in the nation.” Adams said. “My favorite moments are definitely from the indoor seasons when training for high school track. Especially when we went to Virginia beach nationals. This is because it was a good learning experience that helped prepare me for the high school season.” Zeuschel said. “My favorite moments are being around my teammates and having a good time with them. They always are able to lift me up, and make anything a fun time.” New said. “My friend and I were running, and me and him looked at each other as we were going and I ended up in last place.” Keller said.
Each person had a different reason to what they thought was the most rewarding part of it all.
“I made a lot of new friends. I got in shape a little more, because of having to do warm ups with the sprinters.” Nyanyo said. “I think trying to be the best of the best, and trying to compete against yourself is the best part. It feels so rewarding when I’m able to beat one of my personal records. I think it’s also the bonds we create with our teammates.” New said.
Overall Track and Field is more than just the events. It’s about the people within the sport itself that makes it such a fun sport.
