By Charles Baynum
Hood College’s track and field team has been making significant strides this season, with several athletes achieving personal bests and setting new records. Despite finishing with just two points in the most recent meet, the Blazers continue to demonstrate resilience and determination.
Among the standout athletes, Juan Barberena secured a spot in Hood College’s all-time Top 10 leaderboard for the 400-meter run. His time of 51.97 seconds earned him a ninth-place finish, showcasing his growth and potential in the event.
Chris Sappe displayed endurance in the 1-mile run, finishing in 4:35.85 to secure 11th place. Additionally, in the 5000-meter race, Alex Seskar clocked a time of 15:59.28, finishing in 15th place.
In the 200-meter dash, Jamel Mins placed 16th with a time of 23.19 seconds. Although Hood College finished at the bottom of the team standings, these individual performances highlight the potential within the program. Lebanon Valley College dominated the meet, securing first place with 118 points.
Jamel Mins, who has been a dominant force in sprinting, faced a setback due to a hamstring injury that sidelined him for a month during the indoor season. However, he remains determined to make his final collegiate outdoor season a memorable one.
“I’m coming off a hamstring pull, so the record I want—which is the 100-meter—might not be attainable before I graduate,” Mins stated. “I will still be shooting for it, though. I definitely think I will break the 200-meter record, which is 21.91 seconds. I’ve run 21.92 twice in my career, so I’m right there.”
Mins’ ambition extends beyond just setting records; he aims to reclaim his title as the 100-meter champion, despite his recent injury struggles.
“Indoor season lit a fire in me because I was unable to run to my ability,” Mins explained. “I was out for a month with my hamstring injury, so I will be putting everything into this outdoor season.”
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