By Jakob Salao, Sports Editor
At the end of her high school career, senior Sally Silengo has accomplished much more than the average cross country and track athlete. She not only holds the school record for the fastest cross country race (three miles) at 17:28, but she’s also a two-time cross country league champion and has placed 21st out of the 173 runners in CIF finals.
“Honestly, it was a bit intimidating because there were a lot of faster girls than me. But it was really fun racing at CIF and I was super glad I was able to make it that far,” Silengo said.
To keep up this impressive streak, Silengo endures grueling training, year-round.
“I sometimes train with some of the guys to help push myself during workouts. I also make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid junk food,” Silengo said.
Although this may seem almost impossible for most normal high school students, she has no trouble getting herself to practice every day.
“I love running. It can turn any bad day around for me,” Silengo said.
Silengo has been running for Kennedy’s cross country and track team for all four years she’s attended Kennedy. Her unwavering work ethic doesn’t only help improve herself, but it also helps to motivate others on the team to push themselves as well.
“She is definitely a good leader. She is a role model to everyone on the team and is an inspiration to me,” freshman Malia Dahl said. “She is also very supportive of everyone and makes sure everyone leaves with a smile on their face.”
The past four years have not been easy on Silengo, but she found something that kept her going, every single day.
“I love being around my team, they are all so fun and they make my day better. I want to do my best for them because they always support me and believe in me,” Silengo said.
After she graduates high school, Silengo plans on continuing to run in college as well, and with her talent and amazing work ethic, there won’t be anything stand in her way.
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