La Grande’s Emily Tubbs took first in all three races she competed in Coast 2 Coast International Athletics track and field meet on July 15-16.

BRISBANE, Australia — Preparing for the upcoming cross-country season, La Grande senior Emily Tubbs decided to test the limits of her training regimen.

Hopping on a plane, Tubbs flew to Australia to take the track in three races against international competition in the Coast 2 Coast International Athletics track and field meet on July 15-16.

“I really wanted to experience racing after airplane flights and the time change,” Tubbs said. “I also wanted to race against new people and in a new environment, one that was not in a comfortable setting.”

Looking at the results, hours on a plane and taking the track against competitors from around the world was a good choice. In the 800, a race Tubbs typically does not run, the Tiger placed first in the 16- to 17-age group, posting a time of 2 minutes, 30.63 seconds. Tubbs also picked up the top spot in the 1,500 meter for the 16- to 17-age group, crossing the line in 5:05.95. The La Grande runner finished up the meet with the top time among all age groups in the 3,000 meters, posting the quickest time of the day at 10:58.00. In all, three first-place showings in three races over the two days of competition.

“The entire trip was a great experience,” she said. “The coaches were amazing and meeting and gaining new teammates was exciting. I would do it again and urge everyone to grab the opportunity if offered.”

As a visitor to Australia, Tubbs did get to see the quintessential Aussie mascot.

“I was up early one morning and out on a run,” she said. “There, just standing in a field and eating grass was two kangaroos.”

The La Grande senior also experienced culture shock on the first day of practice.

“The team was placed into a bus and took off for the track,” she said. “I looked up and we were driving on the left side of the road and the driver and steering wheel were on the right side. It was really weird that first trip to the track to be completely opposite of what you grew up with.”

Now back home, Tubbs is back on her training schedule for the upcoming cross-country season.

“Our team appears strong this year,” she said. “I am excited for the season to start. We have a great group returning and some freshmen coming in that will make an impact. I think we have a real shot at repeating as state champions.”

The La Grande girls start the season as the reigning 4A team state title holders after last season’s state meet. Tubbs finished the race in the third position with La Grande claiming three of the top five spots. Tubbs, along with Cecilia VillaGomez and Brooke Perry, return for this year’s team.

Entering her final year of running at the high school level, Tubbs is now looking towards her future, one that involves her feet off the ground.

“I have always loved flying and my plans are to be a commercial pilot for an airlines,” she said.

Even with plans in place for the future, Tubbs will always remember her races in Australia and the help of those who made it happen.

“So many people made the trip possible,” she said. “My track coach put together a running plan for the summer so I was ready to compete. My family members and friends did so much and the community came through with assistance in helping with the costs of the trip. Last and certainly not least, I want to thank my Mom and Dad for always pushing me towards my goals.”

CUTLINE

Submitted photo

In addition to competing, La Grande’s Emily Tubbs also had time with some of the locals.

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La Grande’s Emily Tubbs stood on the top spot of the podium three times during her time in Australia.