Thursday, February 21, 2013 —
After competing in the 2012 Stanly County meet, Rocky River Conference, NCHSAA 2A regionals, and state finals, West Stanly cross- country runner. Igor Bayluk is looking forward to spring track – and possibly a summer trip to Australia.
Bayluk has been selected to represent North Carolina on the East Central Conference cross-country team competing at the 25th Annual Down Under International Games, hosted on the Gold Coast of Australia in the summer of 2013.
During his 10 day stay in Australia, Bayluk will compete in two cross-country meets and in the Gold Coast Airport Marathon (26.2 miles), as well as time to explore the land.
“I am very honored to have the opportunity to be able to represent my school, state, and country doing what I love, which is running. It will not only be a great trip to assist me in becoming a more well-rounded person in general, but also to compete against some of the finest athletes in the United States,” Bayluk said.
Bayluk hopes to be able to raise $5,000 needed to be able to make the trip through fundraisers, sponsors, and donations by June 2.
His college plans are to go to the United States Air Force Academy or Emery Riddle to be able to serve his country as a pilot in the Air Force.
“I know that this opportunity will not only help with my chances of getting into my university of preference, but will help me become a more independent, confident, and more open-minded person. It really helps to be able to travel to other parts of the world and be able to experience the world first-hand,” Bayluk said.
With a spot on the North Carolina team secured, the team has to raise much of the money to help cover the cost of the trip.
“I started running in cross-country just for fun in middle school just as something to do after school, until the running bug hit me,” Bayluk said.
“I have been running year-round for three years now and have recently gotten into running marathons, my first being the Run of the Red Marathon, which was on my birthday, and another I did just for fun by going out and running from my home, down 24/27 to my school, and back.”
For more information on how people can help Bayluk compete, email baylukdownunder@yahoo.com.
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(Above) Igor Bayluk running at a West Stanly cross-country event. Contributed Photo
Discussion
West Stanly runner selected to compete in Australia at international event
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