by Joy Cheng | Special to the Courier

Claremont High School running prodigy Grace Smith capped a phenomenal freshman track season last weekend, placing second in the 800-meters with a personal best of 2:07 at the California Interscholastic Federation State Championships at Buchanan High School in Clovis. It was the fastest time recorded in the nation this year for a freshman in the 800-meter event.

“I was super excited to get second at state because at the beginning of the season, my goal was top three,” Smith said.

Smith also anchored CHS’s 4×400 and 4×800 meters relay teams at the state meet.

The season meant more than medals and accolades for Grace.

“This season was also very special because it was my first and last track season with my big sister Kaitlyn,” she said. “We got to run together, train together, and grow our bond throughout the season. Being on the same relay team was a very huge deal for us both.”

Her season was not without its obstacles; she battled through knee pain that limited her training time.

“I got slightly discouraged when races and practices didn’t go the way I hoped they would,” Grace said. “But my amazing team and family helped me to refocus and get excited about the rest of the season. My coaches this season were the most amazing coaches I could possibly imagine. They always made sure that my teammates and I had what we needed as far as recovery and individualized training. We all can really tell that they truly care about their athletes.”

Looking forward, Grace said she is excited to begin summer training with CHS’s cross country team.

Claremont High School junior Joy Cheng is a staff member of the school newspaper, The Wolfpacket, and has a passion for journalism.