Need for speed: Why I’m a fan of track & field

This week we published the story of Marion County track stars and their appearance in the state final. A young sprinter out of Marion High School by the name of Chamonte Granger was featured in the story.



Chamonte is a cool kid with good character, so it was a no brainer, giving him props for a job well done on the season. Last year a hamstring injury kept him out of contention, but he returned during his senior year as one of the fastest runners in the 200 meter and 100 meter events.



I can appreciate that accomplishment. I’ve followed track and field on the international level before I even started school. USA sprinters Carl Lewis and Florence Griffith Joyner were the stars and fastest in the world. As a kid I would step to any challenge in a foot race and won several blue ribbons during elementary school in the 100-yard dash. If there was anything I was sure of about myself; it was the ability to run fast. No Ricky Bobby.



Times have changed over the years. The athletes are pushing the envelope and are performing at an amazing level.



During the 1996 Olympic Games, Michael Johnson was the man, winning the gold medal in the 200-meter event. This past summer Jamaica’s Usain Bolt obliterated the world record in the 100-meter race with a blistering 9.69 second time. He then shattered Johnson’s record with a 19.30 second time.



The sports related to track and field are vital. They not only develop young athletes into national stars, but champions on the world stage. I’ve checked a few of Chamonte’s races and he is the real deal. I hope all who participate continue to dedicate themselves. You may end up on the greatest team in the world. Team USA.



Click here for Chamonte's story

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