By  ANA PEREZ:

Track and field requires speed, strength, endurance and dedication: all characteristics 16-year-old MyGemLee Guzman possesses.

Guzman began running in her sophomore year for Birmingham Community Charter High School (BCCHS) as part of the cross country team, but runs year-round by taking part in track and field during the spring semester.

“I prefer cross country but I run track and field to stay in shape and help me improve mile timings,” Guzman said.

Although Guzman finds dirt and hills her strong suit, she can do just as well when running the 1,600 and 3,200-meter racing events.

Guzman occasionally runs the 800-meter racing event as well.

She has found a family with the girls she runs with, who not only help motivate her but are a reason why she keeps running as well.

“My girls keep me going even when I’m at the point of just giving up and quitting,” Guzman said.

Guzman finds motivation through her fellow teammates but her greatest inspiration and the reason why she began running was her brother.

“I started running and continuing running for my brother,” said Guzman, “I just want to make him proud.”

Guzman has accomplished a personal record in the 1,600-meter race with a time of 6:08 and has qualified for the league prelims because of it.

Although unsure of her plans for college, Guzman knows she will not be running because of how time consuming the sport is and her primary focus is on school.

“I don’t plan on running in college so I want to make the most out of these last two years I have,” Guzman said.