El Paso Masters track athletes excited to travel to continental championships

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  Travel and Leisure on Wed, Nov 05th, 2025 by El Paso Times

A Growing Tradition of International Competition

The article traces the roots of the school’s overseas travel plan to a tradition that began last spring when EPS sent a small group of sprinters to a competition in Tucson, Arizona. The experience was a “game changer,” says head coach John Garcia, who has led the team since 2017. “When we see our athletes leaving the desert for cooler climates and still performing, it shows they’re adaptable and ready for bigger stages,” Garcia explains. The Times piece highlights that the program’s recent success at the state championships—winning titles in the 400‑meter relay and the 800‑meter run—has fueled a desire to challenge the team against international talent.

The Upcoming Meets

The schedule is packed. In early December, the team will travel to San Luis Obispo, California, for the “Pacific Rim Invitational,” where they’ll face runners from Santa Clara, UC Berkeley, and a few international squads. “We’ve trained with the thought of that meet,” says senior 800‑meter runner Maya Ramirez, “and I’m excited to see how we stack up against athletes who’re used to different tracks and climates.” The next stop will be Guadalajara, Mexico, for the “Northern Lights Invitational.” This meet is a staple for many high‑school athletes in the Southwest, and it will provide the team an opportunity to compete in a more humid environment, challenging their endurance and technique. Finally, the team will finish the season in Tucson at the “Sonoran State Meet,” where they hope to defend their state titles against some of the best athletes from neighboring states.

Athlete Perspectives

Several athletes share how traveling abroad has affected their mindset and training. Junior sprinter Carlos Reyes recalls the thrill of arriving at the San Luis Obispo venue: “It’s a different atmosphere—different crowd, different track. It makes you realize you’re not just competing for yourself, you’re representing your school and community.” Reyes, who holds the state record in the 400‑meter dash, also noted that the trip has boosted his confidence heading into the upcoming state meet. “Seeing how you perform in a new setting helps you trust your preparation.”

Meanwhile, senior long‑distance runner Leila Martinez says the journey has deepened her appreciation for the sport. “Running in Mexico, with the altitude and heat, is a test of mental strength,” she remarks. “It pushes you to focus on your breathing and pacing, which is something you can’t practice at home.” Martinez, who led the team in the 1500‑meter run last season, says that the travel experience will make her a more well‑rounded athlete for college recruiting.

Coaching Strategy and Support

Coach Garcia points to the support system that has been integral to the program’s success. The team’s athletic trainer, Dr. Elena Torres, has been instrumental in preparing athletes for the physical demands of traveling. Torres shares that the team has been doing altitude acclimatization training in the high desert to reduce the shock of moving to Guadalajara. “We’ve been simulating the conditions they’ll face,” Torres says, “and that has really helped our athletes adapt more quickly.”

The Times article also mentions the school’s athletic department’s partnership with local businesses to provide travel stipends. “We’ve had sponsors like the El Paso Automotive Group cover a portion of the travel costs, which means our athletes can focus entirely on performance,” says the department’s director, Luis Hernandez.

Links to Further Reading

1. El Paso High School Track Schedule – The article includes a link to the official track schedule posted on the school’s athletic website. The schedule lists all meet dates, locations, and the events each athlete will compete in, providing a comprehensive roadmap for the team’s season.

2. Coach John Garcia’s Interview – A link to an interview with Coach Garcia on the El Paso Times’ “Coaches Corner” section offers a deeper look into his coaching philosophy and how he prepares his team for high‑pressure competitions.

3. Previous International Meet Highlights – The article links to a past coverage piece titled “El Paso Track Team’s Triumph in Tucson” that showcases the team’s performance in a prior international meet, giving readers context on the program’s growth.

4. College Recruiting Outlook – A link to a feature on the “El Paso Times” college sports desk discusses how international competition experience influences recruiting prospects for high‑school athletes.

Looking Forward

As the team prepares for a season that will take them across borders, the sense of pride and anticipation is palpable. The Times’ coverage not only highlights the logistical and competitive aspects of traveling abroad but also celebrates the personal growth and resilience the athletes are developing along the way. With the international meets on the horizon, the El Paso High School track team is poised to bring the city’s name to a wider audience, and the local community is eager to see what new records and stories will emerge from these exciting adventures.