As the track season continues at FVHS, athletes on the track team are pushing themselves to improve their times and prepare for the spring season. Sprinters across the team are focusing on personal growth, mental preparation and competitive goals.
Senior Amirrah McFarland competes in the open 200 meter and the 4×200 meter relay. She chose the 200 because it allows her to gradually build speed, which fits her strengths as a runner.
“I do the 4×200 meter and the open 200. I’m better at building up my speed, and the 200 gives me time to do that,” said McFarland.
McFarland stays focused on improvement by maintaining healthy habits and pushing herself in every race. Her main goal is to continue lowering her times as the season progresses.
“I try to eat healthy, aim for a new PR every race and give my all for every event,” said McFarland.
Junior Eleanny Martinez competes in all sprint events and enjoys the competitive nature of short-distance races. She prepares mentally by focusing on her own execution rather than her competitors and continues to challenge herself throughout the season.
“I compete in all sprint events because I can’t endure the pain of running longer distances, and they’re more competitive,” said Martinez.
Although she has seen improvement compared to previous seasons, Martinez admits she has not yet met her personal expectations. Still, she remains motivated and optimistic moving forward.
“This season is better than my past ones, but I’m not meeting my expectations, so I’m just trying to push myself more,” said Martinez.
Martinez hopes to continue improving while still enjoying the sport and keeping her future goals in mind.
“I want to keep getting better, have a good time, and hopefully reach the times I need to run in college,” said Martinez.
Senior Jalen Ali competes in the 55 meter dash, 300 meter dash, and the 4×200 meter relay. His speed and consistency have improved to make him stronger this season.
“I like the 55 because I’ve always had good acceleration, and it fits me perfectly,” said Ali.
Although the 300 meter dash was not originally his choice, it has become one of his strong events. Ali credits his mental focus for his success on the track.
“The 300 wasn’t my first choice, but I was chosen for it because I was fast, and it turns out I am pretty good at it,” said Ali.
Ali prepares for each race by locking in mentally and focusing on his own performance rather than the competition.
“In track you’re not racing other people, only the clock. It is basically you versus you,” said Ali.
He is looking ahead and has high goals for the remainder of the season.
“I want to break the school records in the 55 and 300, make it to nationals, and go to states,” said Ali.
With athletes continuing to set high expectations for themselves, the FVHS track team is building confidence and momentum as the season progresses.
