Challenges, determination and success are a few words that describe this season for the Sayre High School track teams coached by Patton Pugh, who took control of the program 5 years ago.

Sayre is currently building a brand new track facility which should be completed this summer. It’s an exciting era for the teams, but the construction left athletes without a place to practice this season.

Pugh and his athletes persisted and found alternative ways to practice. He said the teams adjusted and “took on the challenge of not having a track to practice on well.”

Another challenge was the loss of a large number of senior boys which graduated the year before all while the girls team suffered a couple key injuries. But Pugh refused to compromise his expectations.

“This group of boys and girls exceeded all my expectations and then some,” Pugh said. “They competed and showed out every week.”

Pugh named athletes like Emily Easter, Addison Mariano, Lila Whitney, Gracie Myers and Bailey Seymour as keys to success for the girls team who were able to “bring success for themselves and the program.”

“These girls were in several different events and part of the relays,” Pugh said.

For the boys, Camdyn Richardson, Braden Richardson, Lucien Zakrewicz, Alex Yake, Clayton Mosburg, and Aiden Hendershot were “instrumental” as they competed in three or four events apiece. Zane Allen, after battling injury all season, successfully pulled through to regionals and qualified for state. He was one of 10 Sayre track athletes that made the cut for the state track meet.

“I have been very fortunate and blessed by the kids and their effort since I took over as head coach. Our high school numbers are averaging 40 to 50 kids each year,” Pugh said, “ Moreover, I could not be more proud of this year’s teams.”

Pugh is looking forward to next year and. Seymour and Josie Merrick will graduate, leaving their successors with big shoes to fill. The girls will also have a talented freshman class joining the team.

“But outside of that,” Pugh said, “I will bring everyone back, and I know they are hungry and will be ready to put in the time and effort to make it to state.”

As for the boys, Coach Pugh expects “tougher challenges” with numerous seniors graduating. “The boys team will be young and will need to adjust quickly to new roles,” Pugh said.

The high expectations set by the Pugh along with the large number of athletes willing to step up to the challenge is impressive. This, along with its new facilities, will contribute to the track program’s continued growth and success.