For track athletes, it is easy to be intimidated by 10 meter-high bars, but for Dante Desantos, it is second nature to him. 

He first joined the track and field team in 7th grade as he finishes most races miles ahead of the fellow 100-meter hurdles participants. Dante’s aunt originally recommends him to join the track team. 

 Dante admits how his aunt is honest with him.

“She told me I wasn’t really good enough to continue playing soccer, but she said that I am very fast. She suggests I join the track and field team.”

His aunt’s suggestion helps him discover more about himself and life in general. One of the most important lessons he takes to the heart is he has to work for everything he wants in life.

Although he competes individually, Dante realizes how vital teamwork can be in many scenarios. His practices are tight-knit, so he is able to form close bonds with his hurdle group as if they were brothers.

Each practice he works on with the same group on technique, and they are able to help one another. He makes a true connection to all members of his hurdle crew or his “homeboys” as Dante refers to them. 

The lessons, however, don’t come without sacrifices. Dante finds it hard to balance his life between his commitments of school, work, track and social life. His work schedule can vary greatly, which causes the most difficulty for his time management

Dante doesn’t let outside forces interfere with his progress as he continually works to improve his times. Last year alone he shaves a few seconds off of his personal best. With his improved time, Dante boasts a 3rd place finish at the conference meet.

This upcoming season he expects to make a state appearance.