Most of the time, the first time doing anything in a sport is often a learning experience.

For Granger sophomore Trineris White Martinez on April 18, it actually turned out to be the best time in school history.

“We’re really excited about what Trineris has accomplished so far this season. At the Davis Invitational, she broke our school record in the 3200 meter with a time of 12:56.78, surpassing the previous mark of 13:08.89 set by Sarah Reynolds in 2016,” said Granger track distance head coach Koda Livingston. “What makes that performance even more impressive is that this is her first year competing in high school track and field.”

The most ironic part about this record? It wasn’t the first time White Martinez has set an all-time mark at Granger.

“In the fall, during her first cross country season, she also set our school record in the 5000 meter, breaking the previous mark of 22:23.5 set by Rachel McAllister in 2022,” Livingston said. “To see that kind of progression across seasons speaks to her work ethic and commitment.”

White Martinez’ desire has been evident since the beginning of the track season in March, when she won her first-ever 3200 meter race at a Region 4 tri-meet featuring Hunter and Hillcrest in a time of 14:46.92. Since then, she has been shaving time off of her personal best, according to Livingston.

“One of the biggest things we’ve seen is how much her form and confidence have developed since she first started,” Livingston said. “She’s put in consistent work, been very coachable and continues to make adjustments that are paying off in competition. Just as importantly, she’s a great teammate who brings a positive energy to the group.”

White Martinez’ enthusiasm is rubbing off on other Granger track athletes as well.

“A few athletes who have really stood out recently include senior team captain Amelia Okeson. This last Saturday at the Hillcrest Invitational she placed eighth in the girls mile and just missed her PR with a strong 5:53.68,” Livingston said. “She’s doing a great job finishing off her senior year on a high note.”

On the boys side of Granger’s distance running, two student-athletes have been standing out, according to Livingston.

“Sophomore Bridger Sorenson placed sixth in the boys 1600 meter and broke the five-minute barrier with a PR of 4:56.83. He’s been consistently pushing himself outside of his comfort zone all season, and his improvements reflect that effort,” Livingston said. “Team captain Wesley Johnson also had a great performance, leading our boys in the 3200 meter with a sixth-place finish and a PR of 11:05.72.”

What would Granger’s distance coach like to see from his team in the future?

“Going forward, I’d like to continue seeing our team compete with confidence and push beyond their comfort zones, especially as we approach the most important part of the season. We’ve emphasized growth all year, and it’s starting to show in both performances and mindset.

“As a team, we’re continuing to grow and improve across all events, and it’s been exciting to see athletes like Trineris help set the tone for what’s possible,” the coach said. “We’re looking forward to seeing how she continues to develop this season and beyond.”