The track and field team was busy last weekend as they attended meets on consecutive days. Neither were very important to the team’s league standing, however they were key for individual athletes in identifying areas of their game that need improvement.

The Bob Warren Invitational was held on Friday, April 27th, and the Sacramento Meet of Champions hosted elite athletes on Saturday, March 28th.

Invitationals allow track athletes the opportunity to compete against opponents from beyond their respective leagues.  These events do not factor into the teams’ league standing. With over a hundred runners on the track team, the local Bob Warren meet, hosted at Acalanes High School, gave athletes who usually don’t get a chance to compete in invitationals that opportunity.

According to head coach Chuck Woolridge, the meet hosted over 20 local teams. It was mainly composed of baton passing events including the 400, 800, and 1600 meter relays, as well as the open 3200m. The Varsity women had an impressive day at Warren, acquiring 70 points to win the meet titles. Hurdler Rhea Jayachandran, distance ace Rachel Johnson, and discus thrower Margaret Macy each won their respective event.

Unlike the Warren Relays, the Meet of Champions was mostly individual competition. Only nine Cougars attended the meet.

Jayachandran broke her PR at Sacramento in the 300 meter hurdles. Freshman Mary Orders also broke her PR in the 3200m event by 28 seconds.

Jayachandran said, “It’s inspiring to run with the best athletes. I strive to be like them.”