While you may be struggling to wake up at 6:30 a.m., our Cowboy Track and Field athletes are up at the crack of dawn getting their mileage in. During the chilly winter break, distance Coach George Velarde was training his new athletes, showing them the ropes to their intense training regimen.

After seeing exceptional growth during the three weeks of preparation, Coach Velarde knew they were ready for their first big race.

On Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023, the distance track and field team traveled to Arcadia High School on a rainy day to take part in the 600m race and the 1500m race. Coach Velarde was very proud of everyone’s performance and said, “Not a bad day for our first pre meet. For my Newbies (1st time Track runners), I can not tell you how excited I am for you! The Effort was there!”

Though the new members ran extraordinarily well, the spotlight was stolen by the returning runners.

Juniors Erick Leal and Adrian Rodriguez put on a breathtaking performance in the 600m race with Leal placing second place at 1:27.61 and Rodriguez placing fourth at 1:30.24. Leal and Rodriguez represented Canyon High School with passion this year.

Not only did Leal and Rodriguez qualify for the 600m, but also the 1500m, alongside Juniors Brianna Campell and Cynthia Herrera. Rodriguez finished strong placing fifth at 4:14.85 and Leal finishing eighth at 4:16.53.

Herrera and Campbell showed their Cowboy pride at the race with Herrera finishing in second at 5:06.81 and Campbell finishing in third at 5:17.29.

Four Canyon Distance Track and Field athletes qualified for the Winter Championship, making them the most ever athletes to qualify in Canyon Track and Field history.

The Winter Championship will take place on Saturday, Feb. 4, at Arcadia High School at 7:30 a.m.. Coach Velarde and all his athletes will hope you can make it to the event and support all our Cowboys!