A loud bang came from the official’s gun, and I, along with about 25 others, began the long race ahead. Even though it was only a preseason track meet at Mililani High School, it was my first official race against other schools. However, I wasn’t really prepared, because I was lazy and slacked during practice in the last couple weeks. But at the end of this first race, my attitude towards track changed.
It was the 1500-meter race (3 and ¾ laps around the track), and I came in at 21st place. I felt ashamed of myself, because I knew I should’ve better than how I did in that race. I hated the fact that I got burned by 20 other people. I stopped taking track as just fun and games. I wanted to be faster. In order to do so, I knew I had to commit to it – something that I’m not used to doing.
During the next month, I started running 100% during practices. I don’t think I ever walked anymore when we ran out of campus around Moanalua Valley or along Likini Street. I felt myself getting better each day, and it showed every Saturday track meet. My times got better after each week, and I had reached a point I never thought I’d reach. I started running my mile in under 6 minutes and running long distances was no longer a pain, it was more like fun.
During my last track meet (I didn’t know it was my last track meet at the time), I was more nervous about a race than ever before. I had to give it my all or else I wouldn’t be able to advance and my track season would be over. When the official’s gun fired, all of my nervous thoughts were gone. The only thing in my head was, “Beat the guy in front of you…”
I ended up 11th place, not the best place to finish, but pretty good considering I was racing with the best in the island. I also missed the next qualifying time by 2 seconds, ending my track season. I was very disappointed, but I knew I gave it my all, and the improvement I made was enough to make me glad I committed to getting better. That track season showed me that I could handle what it takes to commit to something, learn from my mistakes, and improve, no matter how hard it may be. Now I view life from a different perspective. The easy way out isn’t the right way. I have to take life one step at a time.
