WEEK 2 OF H.S. TRACK BEFORE THE STORM

By Ternence Huang

Day one of week two of the 2025-2026 ISA track and field season wrapped up on a Thursday evening at the JFK track. Day one featured the FD Friars, Academy Cougars, GAA Angels, Southern Dolphins and Notre Dame Royals. 

 Friars Set the Tone

The Friars made a statement guided by coach Anthony Toves, dominating this meet with a balanced performance across multiple events. The Friars are currently working up their personal records in preparation for the All-Island Meet at the end of the season. 

The Friars sprint squad dominated with Daniel Salas and Shane Untalan leading the way. Salas came first in the 100m and 200m while Untalan secured first in the 400m. The pair also contributed to a first place finish in the 4×100 relay.

Throwing Events Show Mixed Results

In the shot put, FD’s Alonzo Acosta took first in shot put with a personal best of 13.76m. 

“Well, first of all I was very nervous, I’m getting used to a new technique. But after that nervousness blew over, I felt confident,” said Acosta.

Acosta sets high standards for the season.

 “I’d really love to break the record at the end of the season but as of right now I think 15 meters in shot put is attainable.” 

After not competing in the first week of the season, Ethan Lizama recorded his first throws of the season, placing fifth place, throwing for 9.39m. Lizama stays positive about his performance and team goals. 

 “Hopefully I am able to make All-Island”, Lizama said.  “Learning from my teammates and coaches and I have confidence in my team.” 

On the other hand, discus produced shocking results as Evan Mendiola of the GAA Angels led the way, while Victor Sayama came in second representing the Southern Dolphins. Particularly, no Friars placed in the top three.

Mendiola topped the rank with a throwing distance of 39.45m and Sayama came second with 35.98m

In the javelin, Kaynin Mcintosh topped the day, throwing a personal best of 42.15m.

On the girls side, Southern’s Lana Quinata had a commanding victory tossing 9.97m in the shot put and a 27.51m discus.

Quinata is staying locked and positive with goals for the season.

“Of course, beating my own record and hitting 30m,” Quinata said. “Working on my technique.”

Competition in Girls Jumping Events

In the high jump, Academy’s Gabreanna Hahn placed first, with Arionnie Santos finishing a close second. Hahn jumped 1.27m, while Santos followed with a jump of 1.22m.

In the long jump, Irie San Nicolas topped the field with a 4.17m performance, with her teammate Kaelie Paulino placing second with a jump of  4.01m.

In the triple jump, Arionnie Santos placed second with a jump of 7.81m as Mikayla Poliarco secured a close victory with a mark of 7.92m.

In still just the second meet of the season, Santos also has her goals set on a big mark for the triple jump.

“I hope to have a 8.20m jump by the end of the season,” said Santos.

High school track & field continues Friday evening with the remaining teams getting in some reps before the big storm comes passing through early next week.

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