Rouse is back on track

After missing out from track and field for one year, Shantal Rouse is back doing what she likes best, and that is running as fast as her body can take her.{{more}}

The 18-year-old fifth former of the Bethel High School wants to make this, her last year competing at the inter secondary schools’ track and field, her last hurrah.

The annual inter secondary schools’ track and field meet takes place this Thursday at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

Rouse, who won the senior division of her school’s meet last month and was the also the Victrix Ludorum, wants even more success at the mega school event.

At last year’s championships, on her return to the track, Rouse placed third in the 100 metres and was second in the 200 m, but did not make the mark in the 400 m.

“It is my last year and I want to do my best and win all the sprints – the 100, 200 and 400 metres… I am a bit nervous, but at the same time, excited to do well,” Rouse told SEARCHLIGHT.

But Rouse acknowledged that making her dream a reality will call for a lot of sacrifice on her part.

“…. It is tough, it is hectic, having to prepare for CXC, get my SBAs done and train at least three times per week at Arnos Vale; but I have to balance my time”, Rouse said.

Rouse was part of the St Vincent and the Grenadines team to the first ever youth Olympics, which were held in Singapore in August, 2010, but had to take temporary leave from the sport, as she became pregnant.

Viewing her pregnancy as a minor setback, Rouse said that she had to ward off the negative comments of some, who believe that as a teen mother, she should give up running.

“I love running to my heart and did not give up, despite what people had to say”, Rouse recalled.

And she is using her experience to advise others who find themselves in a similar predicament.

A positive Rouse wants her peers to believe in their abilities, take advice, but sift out what is best for them.(RT)