Wingspan: How long have you been running track and what got you started?

Ortiz: “I have been running for a total of three years.  I started running because my older brother and I would race in the alley and see who is faster. Finally in the 7th grade, I joined track.”

Wingspan: What motivates you before a race?

Ortiz: “Before a race, I just think about all of the hard work I have put in to get this far.”

Wingspan: Who inspires you the most to succeed?

Ortiz: “I would say my mom because she knows how much work I put in, and she’s the one who wants to see me succeed.”

Wingspan: What is something you are proud of from this season?

Ortiz: “Getting to run with varsity because being on varsity as a sophomore means a lot to me and to my future. Not everybody gets to run on varsity their second year so it’s a honor.”

Wingspan: What is something you have learned from older teammates?

Ortiz: “I learned to never underestimate them. I learned that there is always somebody better than you, so you should always work to improve.”

Wingspan: What is something that you want to improve on and how will you work to get better?

Ortiz: “Just my eating and getting faster. Working on my strength and conditioning over the summer and getting into the weight room more.”

Wingspan: What is your favorite part about track?

Ortiz: “Just being with my friends and because I get to run and workout and travel to other stadiums.”

Wingspan: What are you expecting from regionals?

Ortiz: “I am expecting we do our best and place the highest that we can.”