Crawfordsville’s Madison Fry and Southmont’s Lexi Odum will both continue their track and field careers at the collegiate level, but were both looking forward to chasing history this spring.
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak and the cancellation of school and spring sports, Fry won’t have the chance to chase a state qualifying spot, and Odum won’t have the opportunity to break Mountie records and chase yet another county title.
“I’m disappointed because I was ready to compete and was looking forward to running one more season,” Fry said. “In the end, everything happens for a reason and it is for the best for everyone’s health and safety. I’ve been so blessed these past four years to have such amazing support from coaches, teammates, family and friends. Although I didn’t get to finish my final running season, I know that the memories I’ve made will be with me for many years to come.”
Odum was on the brink of setting Southmont records in the 100, 200, and 4X100 meter relay.
“I feel extremely upset,” Odum said. “I was .01 seconds from three records and I didn’t get it last year, but told myself that I had this year to do it. Now that I don’t have this year it makes me so mad because I was that close to the records.”
Odum will continue her track and field career next year at Marian University, and also be joining the women’s soccer program.
“Track is my favorite sport and not being able to finish it is the hardest thing I’ve lost out of everything that I’ve lost,” she said. “Since I am able to run next year with Marian, I am not as upset but I am still sad, because this was suppose to be my season.”
Fry will continue as a cross country and track and field athlete at IUPUI starting this fall, and she said that has helped her cope with the situation.
“Knowing that I’m not done competing yet does help me process this a little better,” she said. “I feel for all the seniors especially those who do not get the opportunity to continue their athletic careers. I’m very blessed as well as excited to be competing as a Jaguar for IUPUI.”
