Every month, we recognize two student athletes, one from a boys team and another from a girls team, for their performance on the field. This month, we recognize ninth grader Daniel Salazar.

This is Salazar’s first year on the Birmingham Community Charter High School varsity track and field team. He was very determined to work hard and lead a good example for his team. In the fall, he was a part of the cross-country team.

Q: How did you get involved and what inspired you?
A: I joined when I was at P.E. class in a room and I saw coach Fernando Fernandez offering people a chance to sign up for the cross-country team, so that was what I did.

Q: What has been your greatest achievement in your sport so far?
A: In running, it would be running until the end of every race.

Q: How do you balance school with your sport?
A: I do school work during the week and relegate most of my races during Fridays or weekends.

Q: What keeps you going in your sport during tough times?
A: My friends during my runs and the bonds we make.

Q: Do you plan to continue your journey in track and field?
A: Probably but if not then I’m going to play soccer.

Q: Do you plan on pursuing the sport in your future?
A: Perhaps, if I continue the path I am going on.

Q: What is your greatest achievement while on the cross-country team?
A: Running a 5k in 16:58. I ran it in October on Oxnard (street).

Q: Who is your role model for cross-country and why?
A: (Steve) Prefontaine and Usain Bolt. Prefontaine is known for being able to run for a long time and Usain Bolt is able to run fast, so they became my role models as I wanted to be like both of them.

Q: What are you doing to train for the off-season?
A: Running and training at the Rose Bowl.