By Ivy Knapp
Glenpool High School freshman Devin Bailey Jr. may only be in 9th grade, but he’s already putting in serious work on the track. He runs the 100-meter, 200-meter, and competes in the 4×100 and 4×200 relays. Even though this is his first year of high school track, he has been running for about three years and feels comfortable competing.
Devin joined the track team because his family ran track, and it felt natural to follow that path. Being around track growing up helped him want to push himself and see what he could do. His favorite event is the 200 meters because he can display his top speed and really open up during the race.
Practice days are straightforward and focused. Most practices include stretches and speed drills to stay loose and fast. Devin’s hard work was quickly shown in the season home opener at Glenpool. That meet is his favorite so far because he PR’d in both the 100 and 200-meter races, making it a big confidence booster.
Before races, Devin likes to stay relaxed and locked in. He listens to music and gets some good stretches in before lining up. Once the race starts, the hardest part is staying smooth the whole way. He says keeping his form together is important, so he does not slow down while running at full speed.
Balancing school and track can be challenging, but Devin makes it work. He takes time to finish his schoolwork at home and sometimes does extra drills after practice. Being on the track team has helped him improve his time management and responsibility. His favorite class this year is biology. He enjoys the subject and likes the energy Mr. Earp displays during class.
When practice gets tough, what motivates him the most is the gold medals he can receive. If he has a bad race or a disappointing performance, he does not dwell on it. He tries to move on quickly and focus on his next event instead.
This season, Devin’s main goal is to make it to state. After he graduates, he plans to go to college and continue doing what he loves most, football and track, while pushing himself to get better. He hopes to keep improving, staying focused, and enjoying every race.
