Last season was a turning point for the boys’ track program, and at the center were two sprinters who did not go unnoticed.
OH track junior athlete Dontrell Young and OH track junior athlete Jezhian (Jay) Sprinkle their breakout performances showed consistency, confidence, and ability to perform under pressure. Both had a great season last year, with new achievements and new goals for the upcoming season.
Young is an efficient and explosive sprinter, competing in the 100m dash, 200m dash, and 400m dash. He is known for his times, records, and placing at the state where he got 4th in the 100m and 2nd in the 200m.
“Placing at the state last year is probably one of my most valuable [achievements],” said Young.
Young ran a 21.22 at state for the 200m and got second place. Competing against the fastest athletes in the state, Young proved he belonged there. His performances showed and reflected months of preparation and a good mindset.
“I got there just believing in my coaches and just trusting my training, I did, all that year,” said Young.
Young consistently pushed himself through practices and stayed committed throughout the entire season. Young currently holds the school records for the 400m dash (47.63) and the 200m dash (21.22). Young has already left a lasting mark on the program, as well as raised the standard for other future sprinters.
“My main goal is to win the Triple crown at state, so win state, and three events, and my way to achieve it is by working hard and training before school to get stronger, to achieve this goal,” said Young.
Winning the Triple Crown would be a huge achievement, and Young understands the level of focus and dedication required to achieve that goal.
As the upcoming season comes closer, Young enters as a standard settler for the team. With proven results and clear motivation, he will be one of the top sprinters to watch this year.
Young is considering running in college and is looking for a program that fits him and that’s going to accept him for who he is.
Sprinkle is a versatile and explosive sprinter, competing in the 100m hurdles, 300m hurdles, 400m hurdles, and the 4×400 relay. He is known for his times, records, and winning sectionals in the 300m hurdles.
“My most valuable achievement would have to be winning sectionals while all my family is there,” said Sprinkle.
In a season-defining performance, Sprinkle pushed himself past his limits and ran a 38.4 to win sectionals and holds the school record for the 300m hurdles. According to Sprinkle, mindset plays a major role in his success.
“It’s all about the mindset of building up a nerve and just telling yourself that you’re the best before your race, also just having confidence,” said Sprinkle.
Sprinkle also holds records for 60m hurdles (8.63), and he also played a crucial role on the 4×400 relay team, helping post a school-record time of 3:30.31. His performances throughout the season positioned him as one of the best sprinters.
“I want to win state this year for the 300m hurdles and I’m going to break more school records,” said Sprinkle.
Sprinkle does plan on running in college and would like to work with a hardworking program and a program that suits him. With confidence and unfinished business on the track, Sprinkle is a sprinter to watch as he continues to chase his goals.
My name is Eduardo, this is my first year on 42Fifty, I am a Staff Reporter, and I am a senior. You can contact me by emailing 42Fifty@sd308.org and putting my name in the subject line. We welcome comments on our articles and feedback on our publication.
