Senior dashes to ninth in state

FEB 19, PRINCE GEORGE'S SPORTS AND LEARNING COMPLEX—

Blair indoor track team member Julia Elliott placed ninth in the 55-meter dash in the State Championship on Feb 19.

Elliott was a fraction of a second behind her Largo, Western and Eleanor Roosevelt opponents, the top three 55-meter dash runners in Maryland.

A determined Elliott combined wide and power-packed strides to rocket down the track in a mere 7.59 seconds, just 0.46 seconds after Largo's India Ransom leaped over the finish line.

Although not entirely satisfied with her placement, Elliott is proud that she was able to participate in States. "I'm ninth in the state," she said with a frown, "but I'm glad I got to make it this far."

Coach Carlene Hawkins believes Elliott is not giving herself enough credit, noting that Elliott is the only team member who qualified for States. She praised Elliot's determination throughout the race. "Julia is being too hard on herself," she said. "She did a terrific job. Her form was great and she really pushed herself both physically and mentally. I'm very proud of her."

Although no one from Blair will advance past States, the players are confident that they are well prepared for a competitive track season this spring.