Track and Field is one of the most independently challenging sports offered at the high school level. Pushing athletes to discover their strengths and then pinning them against others in the same event challenges them to perform their best. In such a highly personal and competitive sport, becoming a league champion is impressive in itself. When it comes to athletes McKenna Venegas and Devin Jackson, not only did they dominate their league, they breezed through CIF and CIF Finals and now move onto CIF Masters this Saturday at Moorpark. 

Junior Devin Jackson will be advancing in the shot put, throwing a 4-kilogram ball 39.9 inches at CIF Finals. With the competition fast approaching and hours of hard work about to be put to the test, nervousness seeps through the cracks, however, it’s nothing Jackson can’t handle. 

“This does make me nervous, I’m scared I’m not even going to hit my PR (personal record), but working and pushing past that is to become better,” she said. 

Besides the throwing pit, where Jackson and other throwers train, the words “job’s not finished” are engraved into the dirt. It’s a motto Jackson’s kept close as she trains, reminding her there’s always more work to be done. She hopes to hit her record or throw 40> inches at Masters. 

Coach Joe Carrillo shared about her journey through the season. 

“She’s worked hard all season and shown up every day, sometimes staying late to get in her throws. She’s taken a huge leap from where she first started and I’m very proud,” he said.

McKenna Venegas, a senior sprinter and jumper advances in the long jump, jumping 18.7 meters and hitting a personal record at CIF Finals. 

“I’m more nervous than anything. It’s a step further than I went last year and the competition will be a lot harder,” she said.

Vegenas, having previously made it to CIF finals, makes this new territory all the more intimidating. Despite the nerves, her skill speaks for itself in the pit. Her current goal is to break 19 feet. With the level of dedication Venegas has shown doing track all through high school and through a pandemic, it comes as no surprise she’s made it this far. After high school, Vegenas plans to continue track into college. 

“My top choice right now is Mt. Sac and do two years and then transfer into a four-year university but I might look into Fullerton,” Venegas said. 

Vegenas and Jackson have pushed extremely hard through the season and have earned their spots at CIF Masters. It is with pride that West Covina High School has them representing and their fellow track team and Bulldogs wish them luck this Saturday.