Skyler was one of the two recipients of a scholarship award and this was his wonderful thank-you note: Dear Coastside Running Club, I can't even begin to describe how much I appreciate the scholarship that you have so generously bestowed on me. I started running in 7th grade, when I joined the Cunha track team under the coaching of Mr. Farnzworth (Farnz), Mr. Clemente, and Ms. O'Connor. Back then I was thrilled when I finally broke the 7 minute barrier in the mile so I could finally be inducted into the "Sub-7 club." This past year I experienced something quite similar. I never thought I would be able to crack the 5 minute barrier, but when that moment finally happened at the Avis Kelly Invitational in Gilroy, I had reached a new level of joy and pride. I remember giving Farnz a huge hug after I crossed the line (who was probably reluctant since I was sweating buckets). I know I'm not the fastest, most talented runner, but my commitment to the sport has boosted my self esteem and physical health, while also presenting myself as a role model to the younger runners beneath me. When I was chosen as a team captain for my senior year of cross country, I knew it was time to prove to myself that all the hard work I've done had paid off. I set a personal record on every course I ran that year. One of the biggest highlights was at Toro Park in Salinas where I ran the course 4 minutes and 11 seconds faster than I had the year before. Running has also introduced me to some of the greatest people I've ever met. Without track, I wouldn't be best friends with Sammy Hamilton, the other recipient of this award. There are countless other friends I've made and will cheer on whenever I return from UCLA. Even though I don't have the talent that the coaches are looking for, my commitment to the sport and hobby of running will stay with me in college and hopefully prevent me from gaining the infamous "freshman 15". I've already looked up on the UCLA sports site to find that they have a club running and club triathlon team, both of which I'm very interested in. Right now, my major at UCLA is undeclared engineering, but I feel like I could go in many different directions. Just like a good run, there are many different paths to take, and it's the one where you work the hardest to triumph the windy turns and switchbacks on overwhelming hills that fills you with pride and excitement for even harder trails when you finish. Thank you so much again for this scholarship, I don't think I can express how much it honors me to be given money put toward my dream school for doing something that I love to do! Thank you, and see you on the trails! Skyler Ferry |