By Katie Reynolds, Staff Writer
Beonca Smith has only been running on a formal track team since the winter of her junior year. A member and leader of several clubs and organizations, Smith is a well rounded individual that is extremely accomplished in track and field. Smith specializes in hurdling, but also participates in other events.
“I’d say I started around 4 or 5 years ago. I was in 7th grade when I first realized how interested I was in track,” Smith said. “However I got cut from multiple teams every time I tried out so I didn’t actually successfully join a team until I decided to run indoor track winter of my junior year.”
Smith is now a captain of the RJR track team, and has several other leadership roles at Reynolds.
“At Reynolds, I’m Co-President of Young Ladies of Virtue, a member and class president of the orchestra, a member of Red Cross Club, Crosby Scholars and I work and volunteer.” Smith said.
“Beonca is a phenomenal athlete. We are lucky to have her on the team, and she gives 100%.” David Wainwright, coach of boys track and field team, said.
Smith believes that being on the track team has improved her life in many aspects.
“I feel as though I’m well-rounded because of my team. Being captain has really put a lot pressure on me to be a good leader, provide positive examples and reminded me that I need to do my best to get along with others and help them improve themselves.” Smith said.
“I’ve also formed amazing bonds with my teammates, coaches and athletes from other schools, learned how to push myself, and made a lot of great memories on and off campus.” Smith said.
Even though she’s only been on a track team since last school year, Smith has run quite a few events.
“I’m going through the three seasons of track, I’ve ran the 55 meter dash, 100m dash, 200m, 300m, 400m, 500m, 55m hurdles, 100m hurdles, 300m hurdles and 400m hurdles. My favorite is without a doubt the 100m hurdles, it’s my speciality.” Smith said.
Smith tries to run most of the year, on different teams.
“I run indoor track during the winter, outdoor track during the spring and the AAU (club team) track during the summer. “
Smith is quite accomplished on her teams as well.
“Last year during the Indoor track season, I qualified for the state meet in the 55m hurdles, and my relay qualified to run the 4x200m relays on a regional level and I placed 3rd and 2nd in the 100m and 300m respectively.”
Smith plans to participate in several meets this year.
“Since Indoor track is coming to a close, I’m really focusing on Friday Night Lights and the Scott Brent Invitational (City-County). They’re both really competitive track meets and the energy is always great because it’s all WSFCS track teams, and some from neighboring counties,” Smith said. “Even further, I’m really looking forward to Regionals, and hopefully New Balance Regionals if I qualify.”
Smith, like many seniors, is starting to consider what they want to do in their future.
“Short term, I have a couple of schools offering me scholarships so I’m planning to commit soon and signing to a school in April. Even though I don’t see myself doing professional track or hurdling after college, I definitely see myself running in the future, and I still plan to compete, but not as competitively.”
Photo by Katie Dalrymple/Black & Gold