The West Essex Boys and Girls Winter Track teams had successful showings at the 2024 NJSIAA North 2 Group 2 championships on Feb. 10 in Toms River. The meet marked a key stepping stone for the many runners with impressive times and those who have now qualified for groups.
The sectional championships allow runners to qualify to run in the Group 2 championships. Senior captain Devin Fogg qualified after finishing in fifth place in the 55-meter dash and seniors Leo Caramelli, Christian Castrovinci and Matt Molesworth and sophomore C.J. Fogg qualified for the 4×400, which is extremely impressive given West Essex is located in one of the fastest counties in the country for high school track.
Devin Fogg spoke of his impressive performance, where he became the second fastest 55-meter runner in West Essex track history.
“Being able to qualify for groups is something that I have had my eyes on since [I was] a sophomore,” Fogg said. “The countless drills that I never thought had a purpose came into fruition when I made it. Being able to qualify was a feeling that I can’t begin to describe.”
This meet was different from previous ones, though. Runners had to wear different spikes: instead of the usual 1/4 inch spikes, 1/8 inch spikes were required. In addition, the competition was harder. Junior captain Asha Rastogi shared what it was like to perform on such a stage.
“It was definitely stressful because it’s a higher level of competition and you’re running with people who are probably older than you and better than you,” Rastogi said. “But it’s also exciting just to see how far I can go and how well I can do.”
Despite the pressure, several runners in their individual races still ran their best times of the season. Underclassmen who finished with season-bests in the sectional championships include sophomores Darren Delsardo, Justin Wu and Annika Johnson and freshmen Madison Spango, Kevin Zhao, Justin Fredella and Chloe Peterson.
