by Mae Grisenthwaite

Through vigorous work, discipline and standout performances, two track athletes rose above the competition this spring season.

GS multi-sport athletes Isabella Dinkel and Ryann Luce broke school records in Track in Field, marking a major accomplishment for both the athletes and the program. Dinkel broke her record May 7 at Pine-Richland High School, while Luce set hers April 23 at the County meet.

“They’re great kids,” Assistant Coach Mr. Jeremy Lenzi said. “I’m really happy for the both of them.”

Breaking a school record that had stood since 1979, Dinkel finished the 200-meter dash in just 25.51 seconds.

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Sophomore Bella Dinkel places first at the River Valley 9th and 10th grade invitational.

Photo Courtesy: Mr. Lenzi

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“I was just told to go out and run it,” Dinkel said. “I warmed up just like any race and did my best.”

This milestone for Dinkel made her feel a sense of accomplishment, as she makes her way to States.

“It made me feel so cool to know I have a record now,” Dinkel said.

Along with Dinkel’s broken record, Luce worked hard to break the 100-meter hurdles record that stood for just about 28 years.

“It made me feel like my hard work paid off,” Luce said. 

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Sophomore Ryann Luce places 2nd in the 100 meter hurdles alongside sophomore Bella Dinkel, who placed 5th, at the WCCA Invitational.

Photo Courtesy: Mrs. Dinkel

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Luce’s record-breaking performance was the result of months of hard work and dedication in and outside the track season. 

“Ryann really made a commitment after last season to get better,” Mr. Lenzi said. “She did a lot of things over the summer and then really worked hard over the winter.”

Even though Luce works hard in and out of the season she says, like Dinkel, she “didn’t prepare much differently” than she usually does for meets.

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Sophomore Ryann Luce and sophomore Bella Dinkel running the 100M hurdles at the WCCA Invitational.

Photo Courtesy: Mr. Lenzi

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Along with this being a major accomplishment for the girls, it was also a heart felt moment for their coach.

“I’m incredibly proud of both of them,” Lenzi said. “It’s awesome to see them reap the reward of the hard work they’ve put in.”