On May 12, RV’s boys and girls had a track meet against Moorestown. As the meet was held at RV’s track, they made sure to defend their home. It was full of many RV participants, and students jumped at the chance to play the sport they love and have a sense of normalcy. 

“I was sad when I heard that my sophomore track season got canceled last year because of [COVID-19],” said junior Denzel Cedeno, a sprinter.” I worked so hard before it started and practiced every chance I got. So when I heard that we were having both a winter and spring season this year, I was so excited. I couldn’t believe that I would be able to run with everyone again, especially my seniors.” 

Even though students were still required to follow COVID-19 protocols, they were allowed to take their masks off when running and be in close proximity with friends. Plus, there were many fans there to cheer on the runners and show school pride, just like “normal” times. 

This year, RV was tasked with training with a strong string of freshman runners. Returning faces welcomed them to the team and showed them the Red Devil way. 

“My middle school didn’t have a track team, so this was my first year running,” said freshman runner David Godbolt. “I was so nervous that I wasn’t going to know many people and not do good, but the coaches and players really helped me. I can definitely see how much I’ve improved from the beginning. I know I missed out on a lot of RV traditions and events, but I’m glad track is something I can say I did. It was definitely one of the highlights of my freshman year.”

The meet started with sprint and long-distance races and ended with relay races and high jump competitions. At the end of the meet, the entirety of the track and field team gathered together and reflected on their victory. 

As the season is coming to an end, they have prepared for divisionals and championships. Their commitment earned them the title “Division Champions.”

“At the BCSL Divisional Meet, my relay team got second place in the 4×400 race,” said Cedeno. “I realized how close the season was to ending there. I couldn’t help but be sad because RV track is like a family to me.”

RV track is probably the most “slept on” sport. They hold some of the best records and best runners, yet according to many runners, they don’t get the recognition they deserve. They continuously beat their competition, yet few students outside the team know of their accomplishments. Many runners hope this changes with the growth of the team.