Magre, Berger, and Baptista all qualify for states
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By Mike Stoller

The Somerville High track and field team gave more than a commendable effort against a fiercely competitive Malden squad in a meet that came down to the final event – the relay – last week. The Highlanders ultimately dropped a tough 69.5 66.5 decision to the Golden Tornadoes.

“It was a tough loss, but I couldn’t be happier with the way our girls performed,” Highlanders Head Coach Charlie O’Rourke said. “Our young team has grown each week and they gave their best against a strong Malden team.”

Outstanding performances for Somerville included state meet qualifying times by Saragrace Magre, who finished the 400 meter hurdles in 70.1 seconds, Gelynne Berger, who ran the 100 meter in 12.5 seconds, and Melissa Baptista, who ran the 400 meters in 63.1 seconds.

Magre also won the long jump with a leap of 13 feet, 7 inches. Berger also placed first in the 200 meters with a time of 26.7 seconds. Baptista also won the triple jump with a combined leap of 31 feet, 9 inches.

Delmy Hernandez almost qualified for the states, crossing at 12 minutes and 37 seconds in the two-mile run. “That was her best time ever,” O’Rourke said in praise of Hernandez.

Lissa Sannon, meanwhile, took first place in the shot put with a toss of 24 feet even.  She also won the discus throw with a heave of 67 feet, 1 inch.

“So we had some really great efforts,” O’Rourke said. “I can’t be disappointed. We have another tough meet [today] against Cambridge. It should be another close meet, and I think our team is ready.”