Not Even the Weather Can Slow Us Down: 2018 Indoor New York State Championships-Recap

Just when we thought we were through with snow storms in Western, NY, Mother Nature decided to throw us a curve ball on the eve of the 2018 Indoor New York State Track & Field Championships.  Unfortunately, due to the weather, some athletes from across the state were either unable to make it the Ocean Breeze venue in time to compete, or in some cases a couple of Section's did not travel to the meet at all.  For two Forza athletes, the weather was not able to deny them a chance to compete in the weight throw and shot-put competitions.

Not much more can be said about Drew Palermo and Monique Hardy.  Competing at this indoor championship meet was a culmination of all the hard work, time, and effort they put in, beginning at the end of the 2017 outdoor season.  A lot of throwers say they want to be great.  They say they want to be champions.  They say they want to win.  However, most are not willing to do what it takes to win.  They aren't willing to do what it takes to prepare their bodies and minds for the process it takes to accomplish the goal of being a champion.  

Drew and Monique have 'it'.  They have that look in their eyes that tells you they are willing to get an extra training session in, not skip their weightlifting sessions, and watch video to ensure they are doing everything they can to be champions.  They don't need to tell people what they are doing.  They show it.  They show up everyday; focused, ready to learn, willing to ask questions, and knowing they are going to make mistakes.  

Congratulations on a fantastic indoor state championship meet.  Four events entered, four events medaled in.

Pictured below-Webster Thomas sophomore Monique Hardy (1st in weight throw/5th in shot-put) and Spencerport senior and Dartmouth bound Drew Palermo (3rd in weight throw/8th in shot-put).

Pictured below-Webster Thomas sophomore Monique Hardy-2018 New York State 20# Weight Throw Champion