Long summer nights are for Unified Track. That moment when the baton is passed, a personal best is made, or the bodies of the athletes and partners crossing the finish line. Crossing the finish not only means a race has been run, but it is also the special moment when the tight relationships between the buddies and their partners is expressed through triumph.
Throughout the Unified Track season, athletes are paired with buddies and compete in various events alongside each other all year. Learning, experiencing, and trying out these events allows for the ability for the partners to be around their buddy more. No matter the result, one thing holds true, the relationship between the athletes is growing closer.
“My relationship with my buddy Jack has grown more through track,” senior Tyler Irwin says, “track allows us to talk more and learn and do new things.”
The opportunity to compete and build relationships with fellow athletes is special. Learning from each other, the athletes and their partners learn from each other and build a bond that will never be forgotten. A bond that lasts beyond track and carried on for a lifetime.
“Outside of track I have been impacted heavily by my friends and teammates from Unified Track,” Tyler Irwin explained, “I have created relationships that I will carry on for many years to come.”
Having these friendships allows for a lifetime of memories and experiences. Each year, new ones are made while the old ones are cherished. Whether it is finishing a race or trying a new event, the connection and pride shared between the partners and buddies is a remarkable sight.
“Every year I look forward to seeing the pride and accomplishment on the faces of our athletes and partners,” coach Moosbrugger notes, “Their growth is so important for their confidence.”
Over the years and across the season, the relationship amongst the team, specifically the buddies and partners have grown on and off the track. No matter the lane you run in, place you finish, or event you participate in, these relationships hold special value to the Unified Track program and truly capture what the sport is about.
“It is very special for me to have built these relationships with all my peers and friends,” Partner Tyler Irwin concludes, “I have people I can depend on and know that I will have friendships with them for many years.”
