By KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
RIO HONDO — Senior Jasmine Rangel always had her heart set on running at the college level.
Rangel, a multi-sport athlete, signed to run cross country and track at Western Texas on Tuesday.
“There are a lot of nerves because today I know I have made my family, friends and Rio Hondo proud,” Rangel said. “I’m so grateful to see all the support here today.”
Rangel qualified for the regional meet later this week and feels that with her signing complete, she can focus on the regional with the hope that she can punch her ticket to the state meet.
“I have a clear state of mind, now I can focus on the regional meet,” Rangel said.
Rangel, who also played basketball and soccer, is following in the footsteps of her mother, who also ran at Rio Hondo and went on to run at St. Edwards University.
“Ever since I was a little kid, this was a goal for me,” Rangel said. “My mom also ran here in Rio Hondo and ran in college. So this is very special for myself and our family.”
Rangel will be running the two-mile and mile events at the regional meet. This year marks the fourth straight year Rangel will compete at the regional.
“She has been someone that the girls have always looked up too,” cross country coach Jose Jaramillo said. “From her freshman year, she was always out there running hard and trying to better herself. She never took a day off unless she got hurt, but even that wouldn’t stop her. She was just consistent.”