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Track is ready to rock and roll
Elizabeth Salazar | 2/28/08 | Track
Athletes are now lacing up their running shoes and preparing to jog, race and sprint their way out onto Granite’s first ever “all weather track.” New this year, is the all weather track that will be a big help by giving runners the comfort they need.
The construction of the track began on Monday, June 5, 2007. The track was suppose to be finished by September 20, but was actually finished later in the year. The construction of the new track totaled to $382,171. Granite Hills received a special grant from the state of California.
The team consists of about 20 to 30 students. It is composed of underclassmen and a few returning seniors. Even though the track team suffered a loss of about nine seniors last year, Granite Hills’ head track coach, Chris Ross, can still see a lot of potential with the incoming students for the upcoming season.
Last year, Jessica Alanis received a full ride scholarship to Fresno Pacific University in hurdles. Over the course of her senior year Alanis broke around three hurdles records.
Another great runner was Anthony Holt. Holt was another hurdler, as well as a football star. He has returned to Granite Hills to help out other track runners as an assistant coach.
Ross has been coaching for twenty years, and says, “This is sort of a building year.”
Being that many seniors graduated, the incoming potential is really going to be pushed to the limit to make sure that the future track team is strong. Last year the team was limited by numbers, but with more incoming students the track team’s numbers are increasing by the day.
Some newcomers are still undecided about what event they will be participating in. This is because of all of the possibilities. Many of the people in track are going to be testing some of the events to see what feels right.
With 16 possible events ranging from hurdles to shot put to discus; generally there are many events to choose from. Eight different running events are available.
Some of the eight events are the 100, 200, and 400 meter sprints. There are also spots available on the relay team this year.
Some, however, do know exactly what they are willing to do.
“I really like hurdles, they are challenging, and fun to do,” said sophomore Elijah Merritt. This is Merritt’s second year in track and he will be returning to do hurdles.
“The best part about coaching is contact with the athletes,” said Ross.
This year’s track team is looking forward to a season of improvement and excitement. The first pre-season meet will be coming up any day (weather concerns is still an issue). So, come out to Jamison Stadium to support your newest Granite Hills track team.
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