The thought of spring track paints images of athletes running circles around a charcoal-colored track surrounding a turf field. It seems simple. However, simplicity is not to be mistaken as ease.

With events ranging from pole vaulting to the 4 by 4 to long jump, track athletes must be in prime physical conditions. Prior to the official start to the season on March 10, optional conditioning was held after school. Athletes practiced high jump, sprints, and distance running.

“Track obviously centers on running, but we become stronger and more athletic in so many different aspects,” senior Julia Mattis said.

The SHS track team is not only composed of runners. These athletes come from seasons of soccer, basketball, cross country, cheerleading, football, and more.

“I run cross country in the fall and indoor track in the winter, so it isn’t surprising that I also run spring track, but there are also plenty of people on the team who play a variety of sports,” senior Jessica Hobart said.

On March 19, the first annual Sycamore Showcase will take place, combining high school and junior athletes. The first official meet will be after Spring Break.

“We’re hoping that all the hard work we put in during the off-season will pay off this spring,” Hobart said.

For more information about track, click here.