Freshman Heidi Johnson competes in the triple jump at masters, May 26.
The vitality that helped freshman Heidi Johnson get to masters with triple jump in the last track and field competition of the year failed her at the meet at Elk Grove High School on May 26.
Johnson’s longest jump was only 34 feet, 4 ¾ inches, over a foot under her personal best.
“Last Thursday at sections, I felt really energized, and today I didn’t have the same hype,” she said.
A second injury – the first being from the high jump earlier on in the season – also deterred Johnson in the event.
“On my last jump, my left foot gave out and I rolled my ankle,” she said.
“Fortunately, the injury isn’t too bad, but it did hurt.”
Although she didn’t move on to finals, Johnson said that the experience was still fun, and seeing other girls jump lengths of up to 39’-1” was pretty amazing.
“I didn’t expect to get this far anyways, so I can’t be too upset,” she said.
According to Johnson, her first year of high-school track was very educational for her performance as an athlete.
“The high-school season is a lot longer (than the middle school’s),” she said.
“I have to (learn to) pace myself and warm into things so as to not injure myself again next year.”
Coach Nick Domich also noted her lasting injuries throughout the season.
“She could have high-jumped four to six inches higher if she was healthy,” he said.
Because of her first injury, Johnson’s best high jump result was in the first meet.
In addition to new learning experiences, she said there were also many surprises along the way.
“I originally thought high jump would be my best event, but I also discovered new events like the triple jump and 300 hurdles,” she said.
“I’ve had a lot of fun this year, and am appreciative I was able to make it to masters – and so unexpectedly.”
Johnson said she will compete in track and field next year.
Johnson (pictured with coach Nick Domich) says she will be on the team next year.
—By Mohini Rye
