Alright everyone, Kendall Ellis here for my last blog of the season. As you may or may not know, St. Thomas Aquinas girls won the 4A state championship. I am immensely proud of these girls for accomplishing this feat that hasn’t been done since 2005. Let me reiterate this; we’ve been in a championship drought for eight years And now that’s all over. It’s the start of a new era. I know it’s played out but really I believe our team is the epitome of “started from the bottom, now we’re here". The amount of work my girls have put it at practice was all seen last Saturday and we did what we came to do: give somebody that work. I for one was grateful for the prelims turned into straight finals situation. My usual running fuve times in one day turned into only three times in one day which was truly a blessing. On the other hand though, the weather was something else. My hair and I really appreciated the circumstances. Windy, rainy, cold and just overall gloomy, the day didn’t really feel like states. But nonetheless, the girls team redeemed and proved themselves and the boys came out as runner ups so congrats to them as well.
Now, I’d like to say thank you. I believe I have the best support system an athlete could have. First off, thank you to Todd for giving me the opportunity to blog for FLrunners as well as for all his great coverage. I’ve loved the experience, as it’s helped me handle my frustrations and get my thoughts out. Thank you to you all, those who have been reading my blogs and letting me know what you think. Thank you for giving me an audience to keep writing to so I’m not just talking to myself. Next, I’d like to thank my parents, family, and friends, for the numerous good luck texts and attendance week after week at my meets. Thank you to the college recruiters and coaches for all the emails and faith in my ability to excel. A huge thanks to my teammates who made all this possible, those girls are just an extended family to me. And last but not least, an even bigger thank you to my coaches who mean the world to me and have never once left my side.
My season didn’t exactly turn out as expected, but I’m not complaining. I managed to come out on top as a three time 400 meter state champion and be a part of an amazing team. The time has come for me to pig out on soda, wings and ice cream with no sense of guilt! Just kidding. Summer track is still on its way, but I will enjoy the few days off I’ll have. Then it’s back to the grind because we all know that it never stops, track nation is a full time sport.
I wish all of you continued luck in your meets and training and as always, go for the gold.
