East County Athlete of the Week: Derek Anders

Derek Anders is a senior on the Braden River High boys track and field team. Anders set a school record in the high jump (6 feet, 5.5 inches) on March 8 while winning the event at the Pirate Booty Invitational, held at Braden River High. Anders also won the 400-meter race (50.43 seconds) at the event. 

When did you start track and field?

I started in 10th grade. I started here and then joined an AAU club team (SPARQ Track Club). People in my family did track in college. They motivated me to try it. 

What is the appeal to you?

The hard work. I had to get used to (the difficulty of) track workouts at first, but they got me where I am today. 

What is your favorite event?

Probably the high jump. When everybody stands around you and starts to clap after a jump, I like that feeling. 

What is your favorite track memory?

It's definitely breaking the high jump record this past meet. It was a great moment. I'm proud of what I can do. I worked hard for that mark, so it feels good. 

What is your best advice for improving your time in a race or improving your height in the high jump?

When I see somebody in front of me, my body pushes me to do more. I don't have a specific technique I use. I just want to beat everyone so bad. It's all about your motivation. 

What are your goals for this season?

I want to break 50 seconds in the 400-meter run. I can do that. It's coming. 

What is your favorite food?

I love any type of pasta. I like to have it the night before meets. 

What is your favorite school subject?

Probably English. My English teacher this year (William Duncan) is great. He helps me out a lot. 

What is your favorite TV show?

I actually don't watch much TV. I watch stuff on YouTube, like track videos. 

What are your hobbies?

I like to play video games and hang with my friends. I've been playing Elden Ring lately since it just came out with a new update. 

Which superpower would you pick?

Super speed, come on. (Laughs.) That would be helpful. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Stick with it and stay motivated, whatever 'it' is. That hard work is going to pay off sooner or later. 

Finish this sentence: "Derek Anders is …"

Goofy. I just want to make other people laugh.