Spencer Chase (Sr., Desert Vista) took off out of the blocks like a bullet and then the gun went off again. A runner's blocks was out of place and the race needed to restart. "The false start took a little bit of the edge off everybody. I got out pretty good. I just tried to grab the stagger on lanes 9 and 8, which I got lane 8 by going into the 200 [meters]. .
Chase had determination written all over his face as he shot out of the blocks for a second time. Even as he rounded the first curve he was already moving ahead and continued to do so throughout the race. "We all came around the corner in pretty much the same time. I guess I just had a little bit more gas in the tank for the final 100."
By the time Chase hit the final curve he was positioned in first place and never slowed down, finishing in 47.55. "From what I could hear, there was a guy coming up on the outside so I needed to finish strong."
Chase represented his state well as the lone event winner of the invitational division, which saw many Arizona athletes and relays come away with high finishes in one of the country's most competitive meets. "This is it [Arcadia Invite]. It is Southern California, so you come to run fast. It just goes to show that Arizona has got some talent too. "
The Desert Vista senior did not run the time he was shooting for, but was still pleased with the first place finish. "Well I was hoping to go sub 47 today, but obviously its a little cold and windy so it didn't happen."
Chase feels confident this race will help lead him to his ultimate season goal of a state record in the event. "Just knowing I can hold my own in this kind of weather and run a pretty good time. I am looking to go break the state record in Arizona which is 46.62. This is just another stepping stone until state."