Riley sprints to the next runner and passes the baton to the next runner. Riley Hughes is a 4×100 runner, 4×200 runner, and opens the 100 meter race in the Bowie Track team.  She has been running for track since middle school and has won several awards for her categories.

“I joined the track team in middle school because I love running and I have always been interesting in running as a sport. Joining the Bowie Track team has been such a great experience because I have gotten so close to so many amazing people and runners,” Hughes said.

Hughes has put in hours upon hours working hard for track and with that comes with her success.

“I spend a lot of time running, whether it is at a meet, a practice, or just around the block in my free time. I love the way it makes me feel and it improves my mood so much,” Hughes said. “I have quit other sports and focused more on track in the last year, and you can really tell how my commitment to the sport has improved.”

But, while working so hard there are some hardships that come along with the sport.

“I dislike how lengthy the meets are because there is kind of a lot of time waiting when I want to do my races,” Hughes said.

Hughes’ coaches have had a strong influence on her running and her commitment to the team.

“My coaches have provided me to teach me more about the sport and how to work harder. I have learned so much and it is so helpful having such supportive coaches and teammates by your side,” Hughes said.

Track meets for Hughes’ team take hours to complete, but in the end it is worth it for Hughes.

“My favorite part about being in track is being able to see yourself improve and get better throughout all the practices and meets. I have seen myself become better every year and it is the best feeling in the world to see what your commitment to a sport can do to you,” Hughes said.