Track is Back

Track+is+Back

Every year, the DMAE track team proves why it is one of the most recognized sports team in Englewood. This season, it exceeded expectations with its performance at states.

“This track season was very successful and the best part about our success is that we are all so young and under 16 years old,” said junior Lisandro Ulerio proudly.

At states, Lisandro along with his two other teammates, Cedric Martin and Quanzie Lumsden, placed in the 55 meter race. Ulerio came in 2nd, Martin came in 3rd, and Lumsden came in 6th.

“We are very proud of our kids and the awards they have managed to accomplish year after year,” track coach Mike Epps said. “The dedication they have for this sport is unlike any other and I’m happy to see them getting it done in the classroom as well,” he added.

Off the field, track athletes always find a way to keep up with their school work. Because meets can last up to several hours, they usually bring their books and do homework during breaks.

“As a freshman it was difficult balancing school work and track at first, but I got used to it and began to understand that school work comes first because if my grades are slacking, then I won’t be able to run or compete anymore,” said freshman Jonathan Taylor seriously.

Now, competing comes second nature for these athletes. Recently, Ulerio, Taylor, Lumsden, and Martin ran together in the 4×200 meter race at the Bergen County Indoor Track Meet where they placed 3rd. Lumsden was also selected for the first team all county honors for the 200 meter race, Martin was selected for the first team all county honors for the 400 meter race, and Ulerio was selected for the second team all league 55 meter race.

Next year, these four are setting their eyes on even bigger and better events and awards. Three of the four sprinters have raced together for the past two years and next year will be their final opportunity to be great together, as Ulerio will graduate in June of 2017.