Community Champion: Hanks track star Michael Abeyta continues to shine

Hanks sophomore runner Michael Abeyta already has an incredible list of accomplishments that would be impressive for any senior in the state of Texas. But he’s only a sophomore.

The sophomore sensation added regional titles in the 800 and 3200 this past weekend to his already-stellar list of accomplishments. He nearly added another title in the 1600, coming in second to qualify for state in that event as well.

This year’s state track and field meet runs from May 11-12 in Austin.

Abeyta, the defending state champion in the 1600, says he couldn’t do it without strong support from family and Hanks coach Dave McKinney.

“I owe it all to the coaching here. Coach McKinney has pushed me to the limit,” said Abeyta. “And every day…he’s motivating me to be the best. And also my parents, they’re so supportive of me. And I owe it to them as well.”

Abeyta also won silver last fall at the state level in cross country and was named to the all-state team – not to mention the numerous district titles he’s won in track and field as well.

He is certainly an inspiration to local athletes despite still being an underclassman. But as much as he believes in himself, he believes other runners have great potential as well.

“My advice to them is to never give up. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t, because you can,” he said. “So, just never give up, you runners out there. You’re special.”