Running to the Finish

Freshman Carlee Sturm, freshman Maia Aldrich, sophomore Emma Pinto, and freshman Sydnee Dove are members of the 2023 Canyon Cougar Track and Field team.

Track is not only running;there are field events as well such as long jump and triple jump, pole vault, shot put, etc. To be in track and field, one has to be able to work hard to get better at running or a field event. Teamwork is also a big necessity when it comes to running relays or anything because the whole Canyon team is working to achieve 1st place in all events.

Sophomore Gabby Thomas has been running for 2 years and runs the 4×2, 100m, and 200m. She decided to run track to be in great shape for the summer. She said that track could help her by making her a healthier person and being well-off physically. She stated one thing that she could do better for the season is “have a better mentality” throughout the season.

Coach Gamez has been coaching for 30 years and has been at Canyon High School for 22 years. He said that since the track team pulls from multiple different sports, the majority of the players have been prepared by running, lifting weights, and just generally getting in shape.

The biggest challenge was getting everybody on the same page since the team pulls from so many sports. Another challenge was the amount of practices while working with everyone’s schedule and finding time to fit in through the season. Coach Gamez also said the key is to, “Just take it one day at a time.” 

Gamez said his favorite part of coaching is the process and the development of his runners and seeing them grow throughout the season.