Running/Track

ISLANDERS DOMINATE MONDAY’S MEET

Decano, Sakaguchi lead JFK dominance

by
GSPN
October 7, 2024

By Shania Bulala

The JFK Islanders once again proved their strength and depth in the ISA Cross Country League, with impressive performances from both their girls and boys teams Monday afternoon at the Harvest Christian Academy course.

This meet also involved the Harvest Eagles, GW Geckos, Sanchez Sharks, Southern Dolphins, Father Duenas Friars, and Academy Cougars.

The Islanders swept the individual titles and team races as Micahloe Decano (24:08) and Kaito Sakaguchi (18:30) both crossed the finish line in first place for their respective races.

JFK Islanders Miachloe Decano and Kaito Sakaguchi dominate their competition placing first in their respective races. (photo by Dylan Lizama)

Decano Leads Islander Girls
In the girls race, Decano led the charge for the Islanders, crossing the finish line with a time of 24:08. Her performance set the tone for the team, as the Islanders impressively swept the top five slots. Trailing Decano were Patricia Miclat (24:30), Gabriella Gogue (24:54), Alexa Anderson (25:12), and Selena Jacob (25:18), further solidifying their dominance in the league.

“As a team, we did really well. Our goal was to stick together as a pack and maintain a steady pace for the first two laps. We definitely push ourselves to do better,” said Decano.

Their collective effort was a clear reflection of the team’s preparation and focus as they set their sights on the All-Island Meet. Decano also shared her personal ambitions for the season: “My end goal is to hopefully shave down my time to 22 minutes and place in the top 10. As a team, our goal again this year is to help JFK hit a 6-peat championship.”

A front view shot of the runners in the boys division as they take off into their races of placing high for their teams. (photo by Dylan Lizama)

Sakaguchi Dominates on New Turf
On the boys side, Kaito Sakaguchi continued his dominance, finishing in first place with a time of 18:30. Despite it being his first time running the course, Sakaguchi managed to set the pace early, leading the Islanders to another team victory. His teammates Stephen Madrano (18:57) and Evan Tydingco (19:23) secured second and third place, respectively.
Much like their female counterparts, the boys team displayed a strategy of sticking together as a pack from start to finish.

“Our coach told us to stick with a group and try as much as possible and sprint the last lap. I feel good about my performance, even though this was the first time I’ve ever run this course. It was a little rough, but definitely fun,” said Sakaguchi.
Sakaguchi continues to keep his focus on winning All-Island and hopefully go down in Islander history.

Islanders Eye All-Island Championship
This meet served as a strong indication that both JFK squads are strong contenders for the All-Island Championship that is scheduled for October 17 at Guam High. The Islanders have continued to showcase remarkable endurance, strategy, and teamwork throughout the season, making it clear that they are in it to win it.
With each race, JFK continues to solidify its reputation as a cross country powerhouse.