Track impresses at league finals, sends 34 to CIF

By Marion Wood

Staff Writer

The South Pasadena track teams had many athletes claim league titles and qualify for CIF at the Rio Hondo League Finals last Friday, May 8th, at the home track.

Many of the senior athletes had strong performances in their last league meet of the season. Nina Acebo set a new personal record of 18 feet 1 inch in the long jump after more than 3 years without breaking 18 feet. Kevin Yonami placed second in the pole vault, after besting his personal record by a foot. Sophia Hathaway, another senior, placed third in the shot put with a throw of 33 feet 11 inches.polevault (1 of 1)

Seniors dominated in the running events as well. Andrew Shults won third in the 100 meters with a time of 11.38 seconds, a new personal best. Sam Anuakpado narrowly missed third in the 400 meters by 0.03 seconds, but won second in the 200 meters. In the distance events, Justin Fernandez won the 800 meters and Cullen Irvine claimed first in the 3200 meters.

“It was a bittersweet meet for many of the seniors,” senior Rowan Leddy said. “Many people did really well and set new personal records, but it’s sad because it’s our last league finals.”max (1 of 1)

The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd finishers in all events qualify for CIF prelims, which will be held Estancia High School on May 16.

“I have high hopes for our athletes going into CIF,” assistant coach David Minguez said. “They have been training hard all season, and definitely have the talent to do well against such strong competition.”