KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
SANTA ROSA — It took a little longer than expected, but Alex Ayala secured his college future by signing his letter of intent to run tack at Central Methodist University Thursday afternoon.
Ayala, who was a three sport athlete, played football, golf and track is unsure of what events he will run at Central Methodist, but is open to whatever events CMU will offer.
“Today means a lot. Ever since I was little, I wanted to compete at the next level,” Ayala said. “Some of my family couldn’t make it today, but I’m thankful for all of my family’s support, I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Ayala had a strong senior season, as he finished first in the 300-meter hurdles at the District 32-3A meet and finished first in the area-round meet and second at regionals.
“It was a fun experience getting to talk to different schools and being able to meet different people,” Ayala said. “The coaches at CMU were very nice and made me feel comfortable. There was just something about it that made me feel at home.”
Ayala qualified for state his junior and senior year. Last year Ayala finished in eighth place in the 300-meter hurdles and this year Ayala finished in third place with a 39.14 time, improving from his junior season.
“When I visited campus, I was able to meet some of my new teammates and I got to know them,” said Ayala. “It was a bit stressful, because I knew I wanted to compete at the next level, it was just a matter of where. Now that I signed, I’m excited and ready to get to work, it’s really a weight lifted off my shoulders.”