The FVHS track team has had a strong season this year with athletes making big achievements from conference meets all the way to state track meets in Greensboro. After months of hard work and training, several athletes had strong performances during postseason competition. Juniors Hanna Epp and Mishael Armstrong were named regional champions, with Epp placing 1st in discus and Armstrong placing 1st in shot put. Epp also finished 3rd in discus, while senior Aevri Harrington placed 3rd in discus and senior Jaaziah Armstrong placed 4th. The 4×800 relay team also had a strong showing, earning 3rd place. The relay team included senior Raegan Redwine, junior Kyleigh Harp, sophomore Annabella Bugallo, and freshman Sophia Hudson. Other top finishers included junior Derek Desmarais, who placed 5th in high jump, and junior Da’nasia Williams, who placed 5th in the 400-meter run.
Throughout the season, the Bengals competed in running events, relays, and field events while continuing to improve their times and performances. Many athletes reached personal records this year and helped the team stay competitive during conference and regional meets.
Sophomore Ella Lund said that one of her biggest accomplishments this season was improving her race times.
“I’ve dropped two minutes off my 5k time and a minute off my two-mile time,” Lund said. She also said her teammates motivated her to keep working hard and continue reaching new personal records throughout the season.
Sophomore Bella Bugallo said that one of her proudest moments this year was “going to states with the relay team and track.” Bugallo explained that the team helped keep everyone motivated during difficult workouts and practices. She also said the team environment and friendships made the season more enjoyable and helped athletes continue improving.
The state track meet is being held this week in Greensboro at NC A&T from May 13-16, with different events taking place on different days. Students, teachers and families are showing support as Fuquay-Varina athletes compete against some of the top runners and athletes in North Carolina.
No matter the final result, the Bengals have already made their school proud with everything they have accomplished this season, from conference meets all the way to states. The team’s season has also helped many athletes grow more confident and improve their skills for future meets. Even athletes who did not qualify for states still made important progress this year and helped support their teammates at every meet.
