Abdirisak Saidgurhan, Palo Duro track and field, Sr.
On the track: Following his outstanding performance where he won three gold medals at the District 3-5A track and field meet, Abdirisak Saidgurhan carried his momentum into last Friday’s District 3-5A/ 4-5A Area meet by coming home with three more medals to add to the trophy case winning two golds and a silver. With Saidgurhan’s specialty being in the distance events, the senior started the meet winning the 3200-meter race with a 9:35.26. In the afternoon, he grabbed a silver in the 800-meter run (2:00.06) but rallied to win the 1600-meter event with a 4:34.37.
Saidgurhan will compete in all three events during Friday and Saturday’s Region I-5A track and field meet in Lubbock.
Coach Thomas Harris: “A lot of people don’t know this, but Abdirisak is Muslim and has been fasting snice the beginning of track season. We have had to figure out his routine and trying to get in shape without fuel. It’s been hard to navigate but Abdirisak has shown a lot of grit during workouts and showing that with his performances. He knows what his body can do and how much he can push it. We have trusted him, and he is taking care of the work. He is just the type of competitor that steps up when competition is around him. He always figures out a way to win.”
Saidgurhan: “This has been a great year and coach (Thomas) Harris has really helped me to get better. I just want to go out and put in the work every chance I get and run my own race. My goal is to always catch anyone in front of me and own the race. I want to continue to get better and make it to state. It’s been a lot of fun so far.”
About Saidgurhan
Favorite band or musician: The Weekend
Favorite social media platform: TikTok
Favorite athlete: LeBron James
Bet you didn’t know: He loves to play video games.
Parents: Asha Hassan and Faisal Gurhan.