Audrey Williams
Online Sports Editor
Juniors Melia Chittenden and Shante Robinson raced against California’s top competitors at the California Interscholastic Federation State Championship track finals on June 3 and 4 at Buchanan High School in Clovis, California.
Chittenden competed in the 3,200-meter race and placed 15th out of 28 competitors with a time of 10:46. This time was approximately 14 seconds slower than her personal record. When in a race of high intensity, she pushes herself to her mental limits and to her maximum physical exertion as well, Chittenden said.
“I was just beyond honored to be at State and get the opportunity to race against such amazing runners,” Chittenden said. “I felt that I ran as hard as I could, and I am happy with the overall outcome.”
Chittenden finished her season as the number-one runner in Bay League for the 3,200 meter with a personal best of 10:32.
“Overall, I had an incredible season,” Chittenden said. “Back in February, I never would have thought that I would make it to CIF, let alone the state championships.”
Robinson competed in the 300-meter hurdles race. She came in second with a time of 42.52 at the preliminary race and came in fourth overall with a time of 42.46 during the final race. Despite having to deal with a nagging leg injury from an earlier meet, Robinson placed highly.
“I’m really happy that I was able to bounce back in time for State,” Robinson said.
Robinson and Chittenden’s appearance at State finished off Costa’s track and field season. Robinson holds the first-place title for 100-meter, 200-meter and 100-meter hurdles in addition to the 300-meter hurdles at Costa. The team finished with a Bay League meet record of 3-1.
“Our girls varsity were runnerups at CIF Finals due to outstanding performances by Shante in the hurdles, our 4×400 relay team and our pole vaulter,” Chittenden said. “2016 was a great year for Costa track and field, and I can’t wait for next season.”
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