BY JON R. LaFOLLETTE | STAFF WRITER
In a perfect world, McAllen Memorial’s Anthony Esparza would be competing in two events at the UIL state track meet this week at Mike A. Myers Stadium in Austin.
Unfortunately for Esparza, a senior thrower, reality is as uneven as the discus field he threw on May 1 in San Antonio during a regional track meet. Esparza failed to place in the top eight in that event while competing on a field that bent slightly uphill and tilted to the left.
“I knew my form was good,” Esparza said. “It’s just some days are good and others are bad. I just went out there and did my best.”
Despite his less-than-ideal showing in the discus, Esparza will compete for a state championship in the Class 6A shot put after placing second in regionals with a try of 54 feet, 2 inches.
“I’ve always been a better shot put thrower,” he said. “I’ve been more attached to shot put because I’ve been doing it longer. I was kind of disappointed with how discus turned out.”
Esparza says it’s easier to remain consistent in the shot because of the nature of the sport. Where discus throwers have to account for the wind, the shot is based on more elementary elements.
“It’s technique and strength,” Esparza said. “If you have the muscle to throw it out there, you’ll have a more consistent throw and hit your marks consistently. You get the really big throws from the technique.”
Esparza’s personal best attempt is 54-10.75. His season-best throw of 54-09 is third-best among Valley athletes.
“I’m aiming for 60 (feet),” Esparza said. “I’ve hit a few 59s in practice, not too consistently, but every now and then. I know it’s going to take a high 59 to get on the podium. That’s really what I’m aiming for. I’m looking to (break my personal record).”
Fellow Valley-thrower John Belmares of San Benito compete alongside Esparza the seven other state-qualifiers. To advance to state, an athlete or relay team must finish in the top two in their event at regionals.