Keep checking back to see who makes the Arizona Milesplit 'Watch List" in Track and Field.
Journal Questions:
Name: Kayla Melgar (Kayla's Milesplit Profile)
High School: Tempe High School
Year of Graduation: 2014
Track and Field PR's:
Shot Put: 41'00
Discus: 135'0
When did you first get involved with track and field? How long have you been running:
I first started off with Sprints then slowly evolved as a thrower.
I have been throwing for four years now.
What is a typical training week like for you?
Usually Mon-Thursday is heavy lifting and conditioning and then after like an hour of lifting we go to the ring and practice our technique.
What are your goals for the upcoming track season?
My goals would be to PR in shot and in discus, Get 1st again at the Chandler invite and to win state in both shot and discus.
How do you prepare yourself mentally for a race? Do you have any superstitions?
I mentally prepare but putting in my earphones and replaying in my head the steps and the movements of “the perfect move.” Do not eat too much or drink too much water before your event. Been there done that, did not end well. I have my shoes that I have had since I was a freshman that was pre-owned by the former record holder at our school, there pretty beaten up but there my lucky shoes. I have added something to them each year. I wear the shoes and my lucky elite navy blue and white socks. ( I got a pretty bad sock tan, but it all pays off). But just keep calm and focus take everything out of your head, don’t think negative and just think its just you me and the ring.
What does your season look like and will you be competing in any out of state track meets during the season or post high school season?
My season will be very full I am competing in an out of state track meet called Arcadia in California.
What message would you tell younger runners who aspire to be at the top?
I would tell them that no matter what keep fighting, even if you’re at the top there will always be someone who wants to take your spot, and you have to keep your spot and never let it go. My favorite quote I go by is, “You’re already in pain, get a reward from it.”
If you had to attribute your success to one thing, what would it be?
My best friends who have always been by my side and of course my wonderful, durable coaches.
Do you have any role models or mentors in track and field?
My biggest role models are always my competitors, I go against the best, and that’s the best way to learn, from the best.
What are 3 things we don't know about you?
- Well, I do not only compete in track I am also a Varsity Volleyball and Soccer player and I have been a Varsity athlete in Tempe high for all four years attending there.
- I also love the color pink when it's time to compete.
- I have a lucky handshake that I do before anything athletic with one of my best friends Amy Bello.
Best thing your coach ever said to you?
You can’t go forward looking backwards.
Shout outs?
Check out Amy Bello Mendoza while she competes in her mile and two mile, and uur 4x8 team. Also Marcus Whitmore one of our fastest runners in track.
Quick 6:
Favorite Pre-race Meal?
PB & Js (preferably smuckers strawberry)
Favorite Winter Olympic Sport?
Snowboarding (Shawn White)
Favorite Meet?
Basha Co-Ed Relays
Cross Country or Track and Field?
Track & Field
Perfect temperature to compete in?
Winter time
Favorite song at the moment?
Happy by Pharell