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Gavin Chapa : A Standout Member Of Track & Cross Country TeamsBy Sally KalosG avin Chapa, a senior at Ronald Reagan High School, is a standout member of the Track & Cross- Country teams. He excels as the school’s leading cross-country runner and competes in the 800m, 1600m, and 3200m events intrack.Gavin began his running career in hisfreshman year, inspired by his parents to work hard and stay fit. His dedication has led to impressive accomplishments, including a second-place finish at the 2024 UIL 6A State Meet in the 1600m. He is also a two-time All-State Cross Country qualifier, a six-time district champion, and holds the school record with a 4:09 in the 1600m.Previously, Gavin was involved in tennis and soccer until the end of his freshmanyear and served as a kicker for the football team in eighth grade.Gavin is currently undecided about his college choice, weighing options between The University of Texas, Texas A&M University, and Texas Christian University. He plans to continue running at the collegiate level and aims to major in Business Management.He advises fellow students at Ronald Reagan High School to enjoy their youth and not be too harsh on themselves, emphasizing the importance of appreciating small victories even when not meeting tough expectations.Gavin’s favorite track memory is crossing the finish line at the State championship—a moment he describes as surreal, especiallywith the energetic support from the stands. Despite doubts about his ability to qualify for such a competitive event, he secured a top-two finish in the state.Success in his sport, according to Gavin, requires a strong mental state—something he developed through overcoming injuries and defeats—and a significant work ethic instilled by his parents and teammates.With the championship season approaching, including Districts, Regionals, and State competitions, Gavin is focused on achieving his first state title, with the State meet scheduled for November 1st. He looks forward to this exciting culmination of his high school sports career.IBy Sally Kalossabella Gaylord, a senior at RonaldReagan High School, excels in Trackand Field, specializing in the 100m and 300m hurdles, and participating in the Triple Jump and Long Jump events. Her athletic journey began in 7th grade at Bush Middle School, where she first discovered her passion for track.Throughout her high school career, Isabella has been inspired by her mother,who has always encouraged her to pursue what makes her happy, and by previous athletes whose examples taught her the value of being a great teammate. This motivation has driven her to achieve notable accomplishments, including securing a Top Ten Time at Reagan in the 300m hurdles.Isabella’s involvement extends beyond athletics; she is a member of the Varsity Chamber Choir, the National HonorSociety, Key Club, and the Paws Cause Club, demonstrating her diverse interests and commitment to her school community.While Isabella has yet to decide on a college, she is considering majoring in either Psychology or Criminology. She remains undecided about continuing sports at the collegiate level, preferring not to let it dictate her choice of university.Isabella’s advice to other students emphasizes the importance of self-worth over comparative success: “Do not compare yourself or your accomplishments to others,” she advises, “sometimes your impact goes beyond how many points you score or how fast you run; at the end of the day, be the ultimate team player.”Her favorite memory from her sporting career is winning the district championship during her freshman year, which she recalls as her first real taste of what a cohesive team should feel like. This experience highlighted the camaraderie and collective spirit essential to her sport.Success in her sports, according to Isabella, requires grit, self-motivation, and coachability. She has learned to set personal goals and develop a clear strategy to achieve them independently. She credits her coaches, Coach McHugh and Coach Troy, for not only advancing her athleticOutstanding Athlete : Isabella GaylordCOMPREHENSIVE EYE CARE FOR ALLNovember Trunk ShowiNovember 8 Featuring Silhouette Frames!Specials In Office• Diabetic Eye Exams • Glaucoma Diagnosis/Treatment • Pediatric Myopia Control • Emergency Eye Exams• Dry Eye Treatment • Glasses & ContactsDr. Chandler R Mann II 20079 Stone Oak Pkwy., Suite 1104 San Antonio, TX 78258(830) 205-2420www.stoneoakvisionsource.comskills but also enhancing her personal growth.Isabella’s journey in track and field has been marked by personal and team victories, learning experiences, and the development of lasting life skills. As she prepares to graduate, her experiences serve as a foundation for her future endeavors, whether on the track or in her academic pursuits.Define Your Hard “No’s”By Keyuna Milam, aka Coach KMost of us have specific brands that we buy and places that we shop. This is not always the case when it comes to our health. When changing eating habits, beginning a weight loss or fitness journey it’s a good idea to define your hard “no’s”. These create permanent life solutions not temporary resolutions. This means that you create rules for yourself that you abide by no matter what. These guide you when making decisions that effectivelyhelp you meet your goals. Suppose that youHard No’s - continued on page 15 November 202410www.stoneoakhighlights.com