by Rich Wallace
“Awesome job,” Calvin said. “2:14!”
“Gutsy race, Manny,” said Sherry.
Anthony smacked him on the shoulder. “You took it to ’em.”
Serrano came over and they shook hands firmly, then hugged. “It doesn’t end here,” Serrano whispered. He pointed at the Olympic flag waving high above the track. “We’ll be seeing each other, Manuel. We’ll be pushing each other to the limit.”
Manny grinned. Serrano was right. He’d had a great season, but this was only the start. There were lots of fast races to come.
He looked around the arena. The spectators were on their feet again as older runners raced around the track, locked in a scorching battle for the lead. All around him, sprinters were warming up for the 200-meter races. Coaches were yelling encouragement. A high jumper was soaring over the bar.
Manny had no trouble sorting out his thoughts just then, no trouble identifying his emotions.
He was proud. He was satisfied. He was joyful.
And above all, Manny was a runner.
LOOK FOR WINNING SEASON #4:
DOUBLE FAKE
COMING SOON!