With more than 20 members, Poly’s track team has emerged as a prominent unit with a strong showing so far this season. Over the years, the team has been on an upward trajectory, and this season continues that pattern. Through consistent practice, team camaraderie, and intense focus, the Panthers have already proven themselves ready to hurdle over whatever comes their way.
Senior captain Catherine McFarlane, the Poly record holder for both long jump and the 100-meter dash, has led the team in medals and points, helping put the girls’ team in contention for the Prep League title. In addition to McFarlane, track athletes across the grades and events medaled or achieved personal records at their most recent meet at Occidental College on Tuesday, April 14. In the women’s 400-meter, senior Mariana Gomez, freshman Lina Haaga and freshman Anais Castro placed first, second and third, respectively, all running personal bests. Of them, junior Buddy Hall placed first in discus, McFarlane placed first in 100 and 200-meter dash and sophomore Kylie Cameron placed first in the 2-mile race.
Due to the range of events in track, the athletes, led by head coach Dwayne Miller, separate at afternoon practices and work individually or with others doing similar events. This method of training allows them to focus on personal goals and improve in their own events. Still, even though the athletes split up during practice, they’ve maintained a tight-knit community.
Junior Matilda Labrucherie said, “A lot of the team will come and support their teammates and cheer, even if they aren’t running in those races.”
Before the end of the season, both the boys and girls’ teams are looking to further develop their relay teams. In particular, the boys’ team, whose already small numbers have declined due to injuries, are hoping to solidify and build cohesiveness as a relay unit. For the girls, a stronger relay team will allow them to gain more points and improve their chances of moving from second in the Prep League to first.
When asked about the type of attributes that make a successful track athlete, freshman sprinter Daniel Shorter added, “Someone who’s very committed to getting better and… someone who wants to build their endurance.”
Looking ahead, both the boys and girls only have Prep League finals left on Wednesday, April 29th before CIF begins. Hall shared, “I’m really proud of the team this season – how we’re all improving everyday, making PRs very frequently at each meet. We all have the goal to do well in the prelims and Prep meet.”
As they continue to make strides this season, Poly’s track team hopes to maintain its success with CIF on the horizon.
