Torres Is Fast at Oxy Distance Carnival

Hartnell College sophomore Isabelle Torres joined the program in fall 2018 with the goals of becoming one of the program's fastest women ever. A first year injury then the COVID-19 pandemic stretching nearly two years did not derail those plans but rather Torres remained resilient and continued to train. She bypassed an enrollment during the pandemic at Santa Clara University and re-enrolled at Hartnell in fall 2020 after graduating as a valedictorian. Isabelle spent the time away from campus training and building the strength to return to racing faster if given the opportunity. With the CCCAA suspending championship competition in spring 2021 and having exhausted her cross country eligibiilty, Torres was able to gain acceptance to UC Berkeley and begin her coursework this spring. A COVID eligibility relief waiver granted by the CCCAA has given her a second chance at her goals and this past Saturday at the Occidental Spring Break Distance Carnival she began her charge to historical greatness. Running in just her second 5000m of the season, Isabelle covered the distance 18:05.61. This mark is the fourth best in school history and only trails Maria Trujilllo, Monica Ruelas, and Malena Grover. Torres has the State "A" in the 10,000m as well and will have a chance to represent Hartnell in at least two events should she choose to come May. She now sets her sights on using her remaining 5000m races to become just the second woman ever to run the event in under 18 minutes. 

Freshman Sofia Camacho is not far behind in the 5000m after her 18:17.08 mark. Camacho posted an unattached best of 18:20 last spring and this was her first Hartnell College all-time list 5000m mark. She also met the State "A" in winning her 1500 meter heat in 4:52.67. She is closing quickly on conference for Mannat Gill of DeAnza College setting up an exciting conference final. Freshman Mariah Changco also enjoyed a solid double running a season best 5:10.58 and 19:38.07. Ashley Ochoa was close at 5:09.52 and 19:58.03. Faith Mora at 19:51.20 and Jazmin Mora with 19:55.93 both set season bests. Joanna Macias netted a lifetime best 5000m as well in 20:07.11 as she chases her first sub 20 minute performance. 

The Panther distance women will join the rest of the team for the Coast vs Valley Challenge on Friday, March 25th at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo.