By: Nathan Bloechl — nathanb@977thebolt.com
Des Moines, Iowa — Gabby Kent never was the biggest girl, nor was she the fastest or strongest, but when it’s all said and done Kent goes down as one of the finer runners in the North Central Conference for some years.
Kent, a senior set to graduate tomorrow, was a four-time state qualifier, she ran at cross country state and was always looked as a team leader.
Time, always a flat circle, has a funny way of tying things together with a nice, shiny bow. So when Kent walked off the State Track for the final time after four consecutive years here, she was pleased with the stellar career she’s carved out.
“It’s just amazing” said Kent of being a four-time qualifier. “It’s a little weird being done and I’m used to be running in the 4x400m relay, but I love my team, we’ve done a great job.”
Even as an underclassmen, Kent carried herself with maturity and with great leadership something her — now graduated — teammates adored about her.
Now the senior of the group, Kent’s been able to continue doing what she’s done in year’s past: lead by example.
“I’m really outgoing, so I think that helps [with leadership]” explained Kent. “I want everyone to be together, I want a diverse kind of atmosphere. I just want everyone to hangout and have a good time.”
Kent had trouble picking out just one memory from the many years of races, especially down in here in Des Moines — but said being with her teammates in front of the large state track crowd will be something she cherishes forever.
“Coming down here, running with teammates over the years has been so much fun” replied Kent. “To be honest, it’s not as much pressure when you get done here, so we’ve been able to go out and have fun.”
Today was the last day Kent will don the blue and gold of Humboldt, it’s also the last time she’ll run track as the senior will head to Iowa City in the fall to begin her freshman season at the University of Iowa.
Kent was apart of last night’s 4x400m relay team, as well as this morning’s sprint medley relay team also consisting of Carlie Thompson, Jori Hajek, Mady Lange place 19th overall following their time of 1:57.48. Benton wins at 1:47.31.