By Lama Tassabehji ---

One of the few winning AUB teams was the newly established six-month old track and field team. The AUBitesÕ winning streak would have continued if the Rhodes team had not had other competitions in Athens. It is not surprising that the AUBites did not win all their races, considering that their opponents were champions of Rhodes, and some even of Europe. Even though they were competing against professionals, the AUB players improved their times dramatically, and were encouraged to train more to get even better results and times. The teams raced in 100- and 800-meter races. Marizabelle Markarian won first place in the shot put against Rhodes, even though she had a heavier weight to put. The Rhodes team members train twice every day, morning and night, whereas the AUBites train only two to three times a week. ÒDuring the time of finals or exams, some team members do not come to practice,Ó said coach Makki, Òand consistency is very important in training.Ó All of the AUBites broke their speed records. Ghadi Al RayisÕ starting block slid and he fell at the beginning of the race, which is why he did not win a position. But even though he fell, his time improved dramatically. ÒIf Ghadi had not fallen, he could have done so much better,Ó stated coach Makki.