Jacob Bejarano: Jumping at the Chance to Be an Oredigger


Jacob Bejarano recently signed on the dotted line for Colorado School of Mines. Contributed photo.

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Jacob Bejarano's Best Marks:

High Jump - 6-7.25
Long Jump - 20-5
100 Meters - 11.51

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First tell us what clinched the decision for Colorado School of Mines. Very few people ever choose that school lightly.

The reason I decided to attend Colorado School Mines is because it is a school that not only fits me best athletically but also academically. 

I strive to be the best student-athlete I can be, which for me means getting the best education possible as well as finding a good fit for me on a competitive track team. I feel like Colorado School of Mines will accomplish this and will unlock many doors to my future and propel me into a life of success.  

What do you plan to study at the School of Mines?

I plan to study Petroleum Engineering at Colorado School of Mines.

You've been involved in multiple events competition pretty much since you started high school, yet you've also done very well with the high jump. Is there ever a tension between the two and, if so, how do you manage it?

Yes. Due to the several different events that I compete in, at times there are conflicts between them at certain meets. In many cases I usually have to run either an individual race or a relay right before I high jump which at times makes it difficult to jump after if they intertwine. I really enjoy the 100 meter dash, however, because I feel this race is the perfect warm up for my high jump and usually results in a better performance. 

What are your favorite and least favorite multis events?

My favorite events would definitely be the high jump and the 100 meter dash. The high jump is my specialty and the event that made me fall in love with the sport. Whereas the 100 meter dash, like I explained earlier, is a great warm up for high jump. Plus, I love the excitement due to the fast pace and explosiveness that the 100 meter dash requires. My least favorite event if I had to choose one would be the 400 meter dash even though I've only tried it a few times. It's a tough race because it requires both speed and endurance.

What has been the highlight of your high school track and field experience to date?

The highlight of my high school track and field experience to this date would be breaking Roosevelt High School's school record in the high jump with a jump of 6-7.25. That has been my number one goal since I arrived nearly four years ago as a freshman, and to finally achieve my goal was an experience I will never forget.

What are one or two of the biggest things left to try to accomplish in what remains of your high school career?

Two major goals of mine still in my last season in high school track is to hopefully break my own record with a jump of 6-8 or 6-9. Also, I hope to perform to the best of my ability at the upcoming state track meet and see myself standing on the first place podium.