9 Questions with Woodwards Yamilet Conchas Duran – Track Spotlight
VYPE: What do you love most about being a student-athlete at Woodward HS?
Conchas-Duran: What I love most about being a student-athlete at Woodward High School is getting to be a part of a community that always pushes you to give your best performance. In both athletics and academics I am surrounded by the support from the teachers, students, and coaches that want the best for you. I enjoy getting to learn to balance my time and the responsibilities that come with being both a student and an athlete. Above all, what I love most is being able to represent Woodward High School.
VYPE: What’s your favorite subject in school and do you have a favorite teacher?
Conchas-Duran: While I enjoy all my classes, my favorite subject would have to be Art. Throughout my high school years, Art has allowed me to discover a new hobby, provided me with an opportunity to express myself, and has helped add fun to my Junior year. When it comes to my teachers I can not pick a favorite as they have each helped and shaped me to who I am through their patience and goal to make us better.
VYPE: What’s the best advice you’ve been given about being a track athlete?
Conchas-Duran: The best advice I have been given about being a track athlete would be to always push yourself in any event. Whether it’s a long run push to run further, or if it’s a sprint workout, learn to push through the limits you don’t believe your body can break.
VYPE: What events do you participate in at your meets?
Conchas-Duran: The main event that I participate in for track is the 800meter run. This event has helped me push through my limits and bond with the girls that I get to race with.
VYPE: What event would you like to try one day?
Conchas-Duran: The event that I would like to try one day is the 2 mile. Although it isn’t an event that I have trained for I would like to test it out and put myself out there for a possible new event.
VYPE: Which teammate always impresses you the most or do you have a former teammate who left an impression on you?
Conchas-Duran: The teammate that always impresses me the most is Khloe Clemence. I have never seen Khloe not push to her limits in every workout we’ve done and she is a running partner that brings joy to running.
VYPE: What do you love most about your teammates?
Conchas-Duran: What I love most about my teammates is their outgoing and supportive personalities. They are each responsible for all the laughter at practice and for all the support you receive. There are never any dull moments at practice or at meets and as you race you there won’t be a moment where you don’t hear your team cheering for you.
VYPE: Who has been a big influence in your life? Explain.
Conchas-Duran: Someone who has been a big influence in my life is my friend and teammate, Zaira Rocha. She has become a role model of hard work and dedication and has always pushed me to be better. She has supported all of my aspirations while continuing to be a friend.
VYPE: What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of school and sports?
Conchas-Duran: In my free time outside of school and sports I enjoy reading, spending time with my dog, and hanging out with my friends. I also enjoy exploring new potential hobbies and just opening myself to new things. I cherish any opportunities I get to spend time with my family, friends, and above all, my dog.
VYPE: What would you like to do after you graduate?
Conchas-Duran: After I graduate I hope to get accepted into a college that offers a strong pre veterinary program. I also hope to gain experience through shadow work not only to increase my chances of eventually making my way into vet school but to also help the community. I hope to graduate vet school and begin my career as a veterinarian.
