Jesus Vasquez

Imperial track & field

Like any senior entering their final season of a high school sport, Jesus Vasquez wants his final year in track and field to be memorable.

The 18-year-old senior has set some high goals for himself and last week he officially began working toward them with the start of the season. In the Tigers’ first Imperial Valley League meet, Vasquez won a total of four events including the 800 meters, the 110-meter hurdles, the triple jump and was part of the winning 400-meter relay.

Two days later, Vasquez competed at Central Union High’s Desert Classic Relays, where he took first in the 110-meter hurdles, the triple jump and again, was part of the 400-meter relay.

The finish earned Vasquez meet MVP honors.

“I didn’t see it coming,” said Vasquez of the award. “I was just happy with the medals that I’d won, so when my coach told me I got it, I was really happy.”

Vasquez said he wasn’t feeling well at the Desert Classic, yet made it through his final event with help from his teammates.

“I was glad when it was all over because I just wanted to go home,” Vasquez said with a laugh. “The 4x400 was the last event and because of the team I knew I had to run it and do it for the other guys.”

Vasquez said he is happy with the strong start, yet knows there is plenty of time between now and trying to qualify for the state meet.

“It’s a good start, but there is still a lot of work to be done,” he said. “I’ll get there.”

MY FAVORITES

Pro athlete Ashton Eaton, American decathlete Pro team USA Track and Field

Class English

TV show “Bones”

Actor Taye Diggs

Song “Aaron Burr, Sir”

What do you enjoy most about your sport?

I enjoy the competition and the individuality that you get. You don’t have to rely on anyone but yourself. It’s on you if you win or lose.

What is one of your more memorable moments in your sport? What are your goals for the rest of this season?

It would have to be when I won in the 800 meters and the triple jump at IVLs last season. That’s when I realized I could do it.

Who inspires you and why?

My parents inspire me because they invest a lot of time into me and my sports and are always supporting me. My friends inspire me too because good or bad, they are there for me and telling me to keep my head up.