This week’s Farmer Focus is on sophomore Joseph Bukassa who is in track and hopes to inspire other athletes.

SNAPSHOTS

Favorite artist: Lauryn Hill

Sweet or sour: Sweet

Favorite food: Mango

Books or movies: Movies

Favorite candy: Three Musketeers

ZOOMING IN

Q: What made you interested in track?

A: “Even since I was little, I was fascinated by how fast olympians and other athletes could run and I guess that just stuck with me. Later on in middle school, I became more interested because I noticed I was faster than other students and I wanted to join track.”

Q: How long have you been in track and why did you decide to continue being in this sport?

A: “I have been in track since seventh grade. I chose to continue because it feels like I was meant to be a part of it. I believe track could help me get scholarships to universities so I can get my degree and hopefully help my family.”

Q: Is track something you want to pursue in the future? Why or why not?

A: “It is definitely something I am considering. I’d pursue it if I can go to college for it or go to the Olympics so I can make money.”

Q: What are some of your favorite memories in track?

A: “My favorite memory is from eighth grade when we were doing our four by one relay and our team was behind, but when I got the baton, I caught up to the others and got us the win. That’s just one of many memories, I enjoy almost every moment in track.”

Q: Who inspires you the most and why?

A: “Jesse Owens inspires me a lot because he won four gold medals in the Olympics in Germany. He’s just someone that I look up to and hope to be like.”

Q: Why is track important to you?

A: “It’s where I get to shine. I truly feel like myself and my mind isn’t focused on anything else. It’s a time where I can do something I enjoy along with my friends.”

Q: What advice would you give to other people wanting to be in track?

A: “[I’d tell them to] just be really consistent and aim for better times because there’s always room for improvement. I would also tell them not to slack off too much during practice because focusing on what I need to do has really helped me improve.”

Q: What is one of the most important lessons track has taught you?

A: “It definitely taught me how to be humble because at first, I had the expectation I was going to win all the time but now I know that you win some and you lose some. Either way I’m doing what I love.”