LAKE COUNTY — She won”t run all the way there to be sure, but Upper Lake High School senior Marina Sharp is trying to reach the Southern Hemisphere and she needs your help to do it.
Sharp, a track and cross country star for the Cougars, has been invited to represent California in the 22nd annual Down Under Sports Tournaments hosted each June and July in Australia and New Zealand. The competition brings together athletes from Australia, New Zealand and the United States.
Sharp”s goal is to run the 100 meters and 3,200 meters and also take part in the high and long jumps.
An accomplished sprinter for the Cougars, Sharp tried her hand at cross country this season and was an immediate success. Along with being Upper Lake”s top runner, she was one of the top female runners in Lake County. During the Coastal Mountain Conference Championships in November at Willits, Sharp placed eighth overall and was the second-fastest runner from Lake County behind Middletown sophomore Miriam Lane. Sharp also was Upper Lake”s top finisher the following week at the North Coast Section Championships.
Sharp”s goal is to raise $4,200, which will cover the cost of her trip. So far she”s raised about $650.
“I”m selling lollipops to students (at Upper Lake) to raise some of the money,” Sharp said.
She has other fund-raising activities planned, including an upcoming bake sale.
“I”m going to businesses asking for help,” Sharp said. “I”ve been to businesses in Upper Lake and Kelseyville so far.”
Individuals, clubs, service organizations or businesses that would like to help Sharp reach her goal of competing in Australia and New Zealand can contact her at 533-7607.
