"You're only competition is the clock." - Coach Valentino Espinoza

The logo of the local elite track club, Escambia Elite.

Coach Espinoza is man that I consider a mentor of mine. He is the best trainer in my area for track and field, and I have worked with him for over two and a half years now. He has guided me through many setbacks, including injuries, motivational struggles, and even the occasional mental breakdown. He has attempted to instill his vast amount of life experience into me over the years that we have worked together, and I appreciate everything that he has done for me. 

While this quote may not carry much significance out of its context, this is one of the most important lessons my coach has ever taught me. This saying will be heard often from Coach Espinoza as he prepares the members of his track and field club, Escambia Elite, to compete. His message is simple: do not compare yourself to the other runners (or in my case, throwers) while competing. Rather, strive to compete against yourself. Try to set a new personal record every time you compete. It does not matter what place you come in or if you get a medal; it only matters that perform to the very best of your ability.

A picture taken in 2011 of all competitors and coaches from Escambia Elite Track Club

Under his training and guidance, I have grown from a thirteen year old county runner-up to a fifteen year old national competitor. With him, I have traveled twice to the USA National Championships, placing in the top eight in at least one event both years. Needless to say, he has helped me along greatly, and has helped me understand the true meaning of competition and sportsmanship.