Outstanding Track and Field Athletes Honored
By Bobbi Zane

Gina Beckman and Brenna Kelly, both in maroon, prepare for the start of the race. Photos of past meet courtesy of Scott Neth

Awards recognizing achievement on this year's Julian High School track and field team were presented to nine athletes at a party held June 1 at Coach Bill Porter's house.

In each case, according to Porter, the awards recognized how the athletes placed in a full season of competitions, starting with a challenging meet that brought students from University, El Camino and Oceanside high schools to Julian early in March.

"Our kids competed against some of the best in the county at this pre-season meet," Porter said.

Awards to the outstanding male and female athletes were presented to David Neth and Ali Smelser. David, who was named outstanding athlete for the school, was undefeated in Citrus League competition. He set league records in the 400- and the 200-meter dashes, and as a member of two relay teams. He also runs with the cross-country team.

Ali showed well all year, according to the coach. She set school records in the long jump and triple jump at the CIF Masters Meet. She also tied the school record in the high jump and anchored the 4x100 relay team. An all-around athlete, Ali also plays basketball and volleyball. 

Justin Kinstel pounds the track.

The award for the most outstanding single performance by a male athlete went to Kurt Dalton, a field competitor, who set school and league records in the discus throw and ran as a member of the record- setting 4x100 relay team.

Amanda Young, another field athlete, produced the most outstanding performance for a female athlete. She won the league championship in the discus and shot put, and set a school record in the discus.

Four athletes won commendation for being most improved over the school year. They included: Josh Martin, who competed in the relay and field events; Lisa Morgan,whose strong arm threw the shot put and discus; Julie Whirlow, a hurdler; and Marsela Arroyo, who competed in the triple jump and long jump.

Finally, the sportsmanship award was presented to Jared Anderson.

Julian High's Reese Shull hits his stride.

About 60 athletes and their parents and friends attended the presentation.