Sierra junior Kelby Dias helped the Stallions boys track and field team to a win at the Foot of the Rockies meet in Fort Collins this past weekend, winning both the 110 and 300-meter hurdles. For his accomplishments, Dias is The Gazette’s Athlete of the Week.

Your coach said something really interesting in that he felt like you were good enough to run in the Olympic trials. What do you think about that?

That’s pretty amazing. I didn’t know that (laughs).

Is that something you would like to go for?

Yes. Very much so.

What are your career goals?

Sports medicine or something in the medical field.

Why does that field interest you?

My dad used to be an MD, he used to work in ambulances. I just think that the body interests me.

How are you working towards that goal?

Practicing for the ACT and all those tests that colleges look at.

There’s a lot of hype about Sierra’s track and field team. How are you all handling that?

Actually well. Coach is keeping our heads straight and just a lot of practice. Our relays are doing really well and we’ll just keep continuing to do what we do. Hopefully, we’ll take state.

What’s the atmosphere or the chemistry like on the team this season?

It’s great. Last year is when we started to bond and this year’s just complete. We all know each other. We are all friends and hang out. It’s just great to be able to have all of your teammates like that. It’s easy.

You also play football and basketball, which sport do you like best?

I like track the most.

Why do you like track the most?

Just my focus. I have ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) and it helps me to focus a lot. Before races, you have to get tuned in and it just helps me focus a lot.

How do you focus?

Just visualizing my race and how it’s going to go. Deep breathing and I don’t talk to anyone, I just go off by myself and get ready.

Who is your favorite athlete?

I would have to say Hines Ward.

Why Hines Ward?

He’s just a fun-loving guy and he’s always happy, because he’s playing his favorite sport. It’s what he loves to do and he always looks happy.

What college or professional teams do you follow?

The Steelers. That’s my favorite football team. I like the Celtics.

Why do you like those teams?

My dad. Because he’s from that area. The East. I like who my dad likes, because I’ve just always been around it.

It sounds like you and your dad are pretty close.

Yeah. Like when I had an interview after I won state, they asked me ‘What did you feel when you won the race?’ and I was just like ‘I was happy’, but it was better for me to see my dad tell me he was proud of me winning the race.

Kelby Dias Photo by