Laney runners come out on top in competition
by Tower Staff Writer Luke Wrin-Piper
The sky over Cupertino was dulled by heavy afternoon clouds, and below this slow moving and fortuitous shield, the track at De Anza College was busy with people for the Coast Conference Championships.
Some were sitting, while others leaned on the guardrails or walked the infield turf. All those who came, came for the races.
The conference proved to be a success for the Laney College women’s track and field team, underpinning the principle of quality over quantity that has carried them through the season, coach Robert Crowley said.
Colored tents dotted the bleachers, marking off the teams into their separate camps, and spectators sat amongst the athletes. The forest green Laney tent was often empty while the team prepared on the infield turf and cheered each other on from the sideline.
Returning sophomore Jasmine McNary brought home two gold medals, in the 800-meter and the 400-meter races.
In her 2:24.22 win in the 800-meter, McNary led the pack from starting gun to finish line, turning an early lead of a meter into a comfortable finish nearly three whole seconds ahead of the second-place finisher.
The team’s ability to dominate was further proven by freshman Gabi Henry, who placed first in the 200 meter exhibition (a separate race from the 200-meter, in that it counted for no points) and fourth in the 400-meter hurdles.
Returning sophomore Zion Glasper earned silver with her 12.41 seconds in the 100 meter, and placed sixth in the 200.
“I’m a lot stronger than I was before,” she said, her silver medal hanging from a red ribbon around her neck.
The Laney team finished out the day with Glasper, McNary, Henry, and Da’ja Archer placing fifth in the 4x400-meter relay.
“When you have great individuals with presence, confidence, who want to be there, you’re going to succeed.” Coach Robert Crowley said.
