- 2017 Highlights
Personal Statement
I can remember back in the seventh grade when I started track. It was my first year and a nervousness engulfed me. Although I played volleyball and basketball that same year, I think that this sport was the most demanding. That is what I found that I liked about it because it took a certain discipline and dedication. Before my first race, a nervousness engulfed me. Then the gun went off, "bang." As I ran, exhilaration and adrenaline pumped in my veins. Once I ran over the finish line, I felt a sense of accomplishment.
The feeling carried over into the next year in my other sports. Then basketball rolled around. Unfortunately, I sprained my ankle in one of the last tournaments of the season. I was devastated because I knew that track was right around the corner. Every morning, I hobbled to the high school on my crutches from my middle school. I just wanted to get better. But I realized that it took a mental toll on me. I just wanted to compete. I finally got the chance when I got better on the verge of the season. I put on my running shoes and ran the relays that same year. I even competed in a new event, the 800.
What was interesting from my experience was that it made me realize that competing is such a big part of me. I want to be the best me I can be and I am aware of the discipline that it takes. Also in retrospect, getting injured opened up new doors for me. The trainer at the high school is who told me about cross-country. If I did not get hurt, then I would have not had the opportunity to compete against runners who come McNeil Invitational from all across Texas. My junior year, I was able to earn nineteenth place out of over one hundred varsity runners. In addition, it conditioned me mentally and physically, which have attributed to competing at regionals junior year. This work ethic also helped me to make it to regionals in track, two years in a row.
Running has also given me academic opportunities. I have the opportunity to go to the best schools to receive the best education. My father told me that whatever I do, be the best in and I am looking for a school that can enable my dream.
