An on-track performance by Wendy Izquierdo  is usually followed by what she calls her “happy dance,”  but there was no energy left for any happy dance.

Izquierdo took part in the grueling event known as the heptathlon:  a two-day, seven event  meet filled with hurdles, high-jumps, long jumps, a 200 and 800-meter run, shot putting and a javelin toss.

It was all worth it for Izquierdo. She can call herself the Northern California Community College Track and Field Heptathlon Champion.

She took the championship with a score of score of 4,334 points, the second highest total in school history.

Izquierdo also recorded personal bests in the 100-meter high hurdles, shot put and javelin.

“When you’re doing the heptathlon, you have to give a 100 percent on day 1 and day 2,” she said.

“As soon as I finish one event, I move on to the next one. That’s what helps me get through it.”

Iz quierdo calls the championship her number one achievement,  but hopes that changes after she competes in the State Championship.

“God willing, if I win state, this will be number two,” she said.

Izquierdo had her eyes set on the heptathlon since the summer and worked hard since.

She credits her success to her coaches, who continue to make sure she is fully prepared for every meet.

“They all play a different role and that makes this a great experience,” said Izquierdo. “They even make sure I eat.”

Although this is Izquierdo’s first year in the heptathlon, the win did not come as a surprise for her.

“It was just a matter of time. I have been working hard and my coaches have been working hard with me,” said Izquierdo.

“From the very beginning, we said this is the goal, let’s get to it.”

The night before the event, Izquierdo relaxed with her journal, got her nails done, and picked out the right socks.

“I don’t want to get too serious. It has to be fun for me,” says Izquierdo.

Meanwhile, Izquierdo says track and field have taught her the importance of dedication.”

“f you go out on the track and don’t give it your all, you’re not going to be successful,” she said.

“Track teaches self motivation. No one can make you go to practice, just like no one can make you go to class. You have to get up and be motivated.”

After this season, Izquierdo plans to transfer and continue track and field.

“If I become professional that’s wonderful. If I don’t that’s still wonderful because it has been a great experience already.”