The new SLOHS track will be empty of CIF athletes on Friday. SLOHS track and Field athletes will travel to Sanger looking for CIF wins. Photo Courtesy of English Teacher Scott Nairne.
San Luis Obispo High School’s Track and Field athletes are preparing for CIF on Friday in Sanger, CA. All of their hard work during this school season is being put to the test.
The Girls Track and Field team has gone undefeated, and this CIF meet will challenge their skills. The meet will be held at Sanger High School, with high schools from all around the Central Coast participating.
The Tigers aim to win this meet with confidence while holding off strong opponents such as Arroyo Grande. Each athlete had to compete for spots in CIF, giving many newcomers great opportunities to gain experience in a very competitive environment.
“I am very excited that I get to run the 4×800 in CIF because I wasn’t able to qualify for any open events, sadly. But I’m glad I get to have this experience running in a relay at CIF,” said sophomore Lorelei Hutchinson.
Like Hutchinson, many students see CIF as a chance to prove themselves to a bigger audience. It gives them a chance to compete in a big race, which is a very good experience for athletes. Athletes who were not about to qualify for open events finally have the chance to compete at a high level.
“I’m nervous for CIF this year because it will be my first time running the open 800. Also, there is no time qualifying for masters you can get earlier in the season, so I’m nervous because it’s stressful, since even though I’ve run the time before, I have to make sure that I have a good day to run that time again at CIF,” says junior Kasey Abercromby.
Abercromby’s feelings reflect the pressure many athletes face going into CIF.
Even experienced runners can feel nervous when competing at such a high level, especially when every second counts toward advancing to the next round. Despite the stress, Abercromby’s determination and preparation throughout the season have helped build confidence heading into the meet.
“Personally, qualifying for CIF after missing it by just a few seconds freshman year means a lot to me, and shows both how much I’ve improved and that I can compete on higher stages such as CIF,” said sophomore Rudy Uribe.
For Uribe, qualifying for CIF represents the hard work and growth he has shown over the past two years. Missing a qualification in his freshman year motivated him to continue improving, and now reaching CIF has become a rewarding accomplishment. His story shows how dedication and perseverance can help athletes achieve their goals and compete against some of the best athletes on the Central Coast.
The Tigers have spent months training for this moment, practicing daily and pushing themselves to improve their times and performances. Coaches and teammates have encouraged each other throughout the season, creating a strong sense of teamwork and determination.
With the pressure of CIF finally at its tipping point, athletes are focused on staying confident and giving their best effort in their events. Run fast, go SLO!!
