Taylor men's track and field continues their outdoor spring season. They have competed in four meets thus far and look to close out the 2026 campaign with many members of the purple and gray seeking a bid to nationals.
The Trojans competed in Ball State’s We Fly Challenge, with two distance runners winning their events. Senior Jared Stayte earned a win in the steeplechase, posting a time of 9:30.62, putting him ahead of the next runner by 20 seconds. In addition, senior Alex Ortiz notched a victory in the 5,000-meter race, finishing with a time of 15:11.7.
Senior pole vaulter Nathan Samson cleared a height of 13 feet 3.25 inches, setting a new personal best.
Max Lambert is one standout athlete this season. Head coach Derek Gay had high praise for the senior who is having a career year in the hammer throw. He looks to continue his success when he throws at the Crossroads League Championships.
“He has improved drastically,” Gay said. “I think he has really kind of found his place in the hammer and is looking to do really well at conference“
Weather is often a contributing factor during the outdoor season, as headwinds can affect races and lead to slower times. Gay said he sees each race as an opportunity to grow.
“Let’s still run hard,” Gay said. "Don't worry about the time. Work on some technical stuff and maybe some race modeling and go from there.”
When lower impact on legs is needed, he suggests runners model their gait using a curved, self-propelling treadmill to practice. Gay also goes into each day with a positive mindset.
“I want to make sure we are treating every opportunity for what it is,” Gay said. “It is another opportunity to go out and perform well.”
Another part of preparation comes on the mental side. Gay emphasized the importance of staying locked in before a big race.
“We just got to trust the process and get there,” Gay said. “So keep doing the things that you need to do to be successful.”
From an athlete's perspective, the biggest key is the night before and making sure they are rested. Looking at and breaking down film and cues for jumping is often something Samson does as well.
“I try to just kind of reset my mind, just relax, not necessarily add any stress,” Samson said. “Whether that's homework or thinking about school or just other factors like that.”
Stayte emphasized the importance of finding the good in the little things.
“You can really get worked up and stressed out and anxious about that,” Stayte said, “If you keep a heart of gratitude, then you're not really focusing on the circumstances of much. You're just like, thankful to be there.”
This type of mental preparation has Gay satisfied where his team is heading into the homestretch of the season.
“I feel like we are in a really good rhythm right now,” Gay said. “Everyone kind of knows what to do and expect with travel and just the meeting in general.”
The Trojans look ahead to the Drake Relays in Iowa which will take place on April 17, followed by the CL Championships on April 30.
