1:30.6 and 35.09. These two times are in the back of junior runner Ray Stevens’ mind every time he steps foot on the track.
Why? Stevens explained that his main goal this season was to qualify for at least two events in the New Balance Nationals, a meet in Greensboro, North Carolina that hosts 3,500 of the nation’s top track and field athletes. To qualify, “you have to run a fast enough time,” said Stevens. For the 300-meter dash, that time is 35.09, and for the 4×200-meter relay, it is 1:30.6.

While the 300-meter dash and 4×200-meter relay are his best races, Stevens serves as a renaissance man for the short-distance faction of the Wilson track team. “I run everything from the 55 [-meter dash] all the way up to the 800 [-meter],” Stevens said. That is a total of eight different races without even accounting for relays.

At the end of the day, while Stevens may rack up accolades for his individual achievements, he is just one member of the Wilson track and field team. Stevens hopes the Tigers can win both the DCIAA and DCSAA Championships and bring as many people as possible to New Balance Nationals this year.

Last year, Stevens and four other Tigers qualified. This year that number could double. “We have a lot of potential on the team, especially on the distance side. I think we can bring 10 or more people this year,” Stevens said.

In addition to his speed on the track, Stevens sets an example for many of his Tiger teammates. “I serve as a role model for the underclassmen because I work hard at every practice and give advice to anyone who needs help.”

By the time this summer rolls around, don’t be surprised if you hear about Stevens racing around a track in Greensboro.