During my freshman track season, my dad suggested that I try pole vaulting, since both he and my uncle vaulted when they were in high school. I agreed and thought that it would be a fun event to try. However, from the moment I took my first jump, I knew that this event would be a challenge for me. I developed some bad habits which prevented me from going a lot higher that season. I was also very weak and not fast at all, but most importantly, I wasn’t confident in myself. I witnessed several of my competitors going over heights I couldn’t imagine going over and I wondered what I would be like to be good in the sport.
The following season had its ups and downs. I was finally able to overcome bad habits which led me to jump two feet higher than I did my freshman year. I was able to do well at most meets and was able to capture the district title. However, I had a disappointing performance at the state championships with a second place finish. After this loss, I decided to set a goal to become a state champion the following year. After a challenging season, my goal finally came true. I was able to call myself a state champion vaulter. Even if most of my performances that season weren’t up to my standards, I never gave up on my goal.
Steve Prefontaine’s quote, “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the Gift,” truly means a lot to me. I believe that the quote is saying that if you aren’t giving your 100% all the time, then you’re giving up on what you could achieve. This quote has inspired me throughout my track career because I was able to achieve things by giving it my all and never giving up on myself.
I am deeply grateful that I get to honor Pre’s legacy by not only competing for my school, but competing for Prefontaine Track Club as well. The words, “Pre Lives,” on the back of my club jersey not only shares Pre’s life with athletes from all over the U.S, but reminds me of his legacy every time I step out onto the runway. Living by his quote is a reminder that to further honor him, I need to give it 110% every time I jump.