Ex-VPHS track star runs to third place in conference meet

It was a banner day for one former Ville Platte High track star recently. Megan Moore, the ex-Lady Bulldog and current McNeese State sprinter, ran one of her fastest times of the season at the Southland Conference track and field championship meet to earn a spot on the podium with a bronze medal in the 100 meter dash.
Moore sprinted to a third place time of 11.70 and was only .15 seconds off of the time needed to be able to compete at the NCAA Regional track meet.
Her conference time was actually her second best effort of the year. Earlier this season Moore clocked her best time ever with an 11.68 effort.
Moore had one last opportunity to qualify for the regional meet, when she participated at a last chance event at Sam Houston State. Unfortunately, the weather conditions were not conducive to a fast time, as Moore crossed the finish line at 11.98.
Moore, the junior athlete, has been able to improve on her times every year since first stepping on the track for the Cowgirls. She attributes her success this season to hard work and lots of time in the weight room.
“My goal this year was to get stronger and faster,” said Moore. “So, I committed myself to working harder on my lower body and drive out of the blocks this season. When I was in the weight room the coaches had me focusing on more power cleans and power snatches. That and changing the way I came out of the blocks really helped me to improve this season.”
Moore is very strong on mental preparation; not only right before the meet, but also throughout the year.
“One thing that helps me, is continuing to stay positive,” stated Moore. “You have to be motivated all the time to get better; not just once you are at the meet, but at practice also. I try to always maintain a positive attitude.”
For her efforts, Moore, a former walk-on, was rewarded for her effort the last three years with a full scholarship. Moore, a sports medicine major with a 3.64 GPA, knows how important and satisfying it is to be offered that type of incentive.
“This past weekend Coach Gilroy called me in and told me I would be getting a full scholarship next season,” said an elated Moore. “That is huge because it shows me that my hard work has paid off. I am so grateful that I have been given this opportunity.”
Moore is looking forward to indoor season in the fall and competing one more year for a chance to make it to the NCAA championships. But, no matter what happens, Moore definitely knows what she wants for her future after track is over.
“My main goal is to finish my education and start my life in the real world,” said Moore.