Damien’s Christian Padron was named the Gatorade Hawaii track and field athlete of the year Thursday.
The award recognizes outstanding athletic excellence, high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character on and off the track.
The 5-foot-9, 152-pound Padron won the 100-meter dash with a state-record time of 10.63 seconds and the 200-meter dash in 21.97 seconds at the same meet, leading the Monarchs to third place as a team. Padron also anchored the 4×100 meter relay team to a state championship and was named MVP of the Interscholastic League of Honolulu. His clocking in the 100 ranked No. 89 in the nation among high school students in 2017.
An Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America, Padron has contributed to community-beautification initiatives and has volunteered locally by helping to feed the needy.
“Christian made the decision to be more serious about his body — he watched what he ate and drank, and started working more in the weight room,” Damien coach Brother Bernard Samp said. “It all worked because he had a successful and injury-free season. He set his goals and he achieved them.”
Padron graduated with a B average. He will run for Concordia University (Irvine, Calif.) on an athletic scholarship this fall.
Recent Gatorade Hawaii boys track and field athletes of the year
>> 2017: Christian Padron, Damien
>> 2016: Anthony Kahoohanohano-Davis, Baldwin
>> 2015: Kayson Smith-Bejgrowicz, Kamehameha
>> 2014: Dylan Kane, Kamehameha
>> 2013: Keelan Ewaliko, Baldwin
>> 2012: Shane Brostek, Hawaii Prep
>> 2011: Pierce Murphy, Island School
>> 2010: Jacob Edwards, Ka’u
>> 2009: Jacob Edwards, Ka’u
>> 2008: Javen Correia, Maryknoll
>> 2007: Redmond Tutor, Kahuku
Christian was also a valuable member of the Damien boys varsity soccer team. Watching his speed out on the pitch was incredible. His passion and eagerness to learn were contagious.
Not only was he a great teammate but a great young man. An honor well deserved.
Nothing but the best for you Christian.