Steele strong so far for Lady Dutch
The Niskayuna Spring Classic is a track and field event that featured not only several top area teams, but some premier squads from outside of the area. The Guilderland girls’ team prevailed in the team competition and sophomore standout Parker Steele produced in a big way for the Lady Dutch.
In addition to registering individual victories in the 100-meter hurdles and the long jump, Steele also helped the 1,600 relay squad prevail during a day in which the event could have easily been renamed the Niskayuna Winter Classic.
The wind proved fierce both for the Niskayuna Relay Challenge (Friday) and the Niskayuna Spring Classic (Saturday). It did not deter Steele from setting a meet record with a time of 14.55 seconds in the 100 hurdles, or from producing a winning leap of 17 feet, 91⁄2 inches to capture the long jump.
“I try to do my best to go into my events with no nerves,” Steele said. “Whether it is the weather or the cold, I just try to shut that out and focus on my race and myself.”
For her efforts, Steele has been selected as the Times Union’s Girls’ Athlete of the Week for April 15-21.
Steele, who generated a trio of wins in the 100 hurdles, 400 hurdles and 1,600 relay as the Lady Dutch defeated Colonie and Saratoga Springs in a Suburban Council dual meet Wednesday, said her 1,600 squad gained motivation watching Ballston Spa capture three relay wins Friday night.
“When they succeeded, it made us want to do the same,” said Steele, who added her team has great relationships with the Scotties.
Saturday, Guilderland earned the win in the 1,600 relay with a time of 4:08.17.
“I was trying my best to not think about the wind,” Steele said. “I just to go out there and run the best time I could for my team.”
Steele, who captured a sectional title in the 100 hurdles as a freshman, said she was thrilled with both individual wins Saturday.
“I’m just glad I was able to go out there and compete with those girls,” Steele said.
The sophomore added she has been pleased with the way she has been able to improve her times in the 100 hurdles. Tuesday, Steele set a school record with a time of 14.29 — the second-fastest time in the state this season.
“I know there is more that I can do, but I am happy so far,” Steele said.