NORTH RIDGEVILLE, OH – My first season in masters track & field has come to a conclusion and what an incredible journey it was! The experience as a whole, was simply amazing, and I wanted to do a post wrapping up the year. I’ve learned so much, made many new friends, feel like part of a community, traveled, and of course experienced the highs and lows of competition.

Before I go further into my thoughts, here are my final best marks/ranks;

• Javelin 133’9″ / 40.78M, 10th USA
• High Jump 4’9″ / 1.45M, 17th USA
• Long Jump 11’5 1/4″ / 3.49M
• Shot Put 30′ / 9.14M
• Discus 79’7″ / 24.25M

I ended up doing seven meets across four states (OH, MI, IN, FL). Javelin was the only event I did at all the meets. My goal with masters T & F was largely just using it for motivation to get in shape, but my competitive spirit really came alive. I found myself checking the rankings frequently and having a strong desire to make improvements and earn medals. At season end, it was a thrill to make it in the Top 10 in javelin and Top 25 in high jump. I don’t know how much I can improve with more training against the added burden of age. Others have done it, and they will inspire and push me to try!

The masters community as a whole, is awesome. It feels very special to be a part of it, and now possibly, I can consider myself a contributor to it. I can’t remember what I really expected it to be like competing as an older athlete, but I know it exceeded any expectations I had in my head. It was incredible to see how everyone supports and encourages each other, even those they are directly competing against. I remember being nervous and stressed as a younger athlete, now I find myself just nervous but smiling. I feel blessed and happy to be able to compete, which is likely how the others feel and creates this great atmosphere.

My sincerest thank you to all of the meet organizers, officials, fellow athletes, & family and friends who support master’s athletes! I am so excited to continue this journey with all of you!