Junior Becky Osorio made history on Nov. 30 by becoming the first girl on the school’s varsity cross-country team to win a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) state medal. She also received the first state championship CIF medal in 19 years since current assistant cross country coach and head track distance coach Daniel Mercado won 6th place in 2005 and Diego Mercado who placed 3rd in 2004. 

“To know that I am the first woman… it’s significant, we need more of that… it was really cool and to be doing that myself I was more grateful than anything,” said Osorio. 

Osorio’s dedication to the sport over the past three years has been evident as she finished in 7th place against 211 runners in Division III, and in past years qualified to race at CIF state, sophomore year placing 11th place, one second away from 10th, and freshman year placing 18th place. Her constant improvement promises a strong athletic journey for her senior year. 

Preparation is a large part of what contributes to Osorio’s drive, from pre-season training, running miles, and strength training. Along with her intense training regimen, Osorio also credits her support group as they have been a vital part of her running journey and achievements.

“My coach Danny, he mostly got me ready for the meet… more mentally… then physically…he gave me the confidence… as well as my teammates they had more confidence in me than I had in myself… and my parents too they gave me a big support system,” said Osorio.

Osorio’s achievement is a testament to the countless hours she spent pushing past her physical discomfort and the resilience and dedication she put into cross-country. 

“Before even the season starts we train in the summer, and that’s like two months of pure miles…core…and strength-training,” said Osorio.

Making her mark in history, Osorio continues to pave a new path for the future of student-athletes on campus.