High Jumper Dean Guzman from Moorpark Shares His Journey to Clearing 7 Feet
Moorpark High Jumper Breaks School Record, Surpasses 7-Foot Barrier
Dean Guzman of Moorpark has achieved a significant milestone in his athletic career by clearing the coveted seven-foot mark in high jump. This remarkable feat occurred at the Mt. SAC Relays, where Guzman not only set a new school record but also triumphed over his friend and defending state champion, JJ Harel from Sherman Oaks Notre Dame.
Guzman’s coaches celebrated this achievement enthusiastically. Head track coach Christian Dearborn recounted the moment: “Hands up in the air, yelling. It was special. He was grinning ear to ear.”
The two high jumpers share a long history, having once been teammates during their eighth-grade track season. As they approach the final month of the current track season, both Guzman and Harel are expected to push each other to reach new heights. They are likely to compete against one another at the Southern Section Masters Meet and the state championship.
Guzman will enjoy the advantage of competing at home in Moorpark for both the Southern Section finals and the Masters Meet. Harel, who is regaining his training rhythm after recovering from an injury, utilized a six-step run-up at Mt. SAC but plans to return to his usual eight-step approach.
The impending competitions promise to showcase thrilling performances as Guzman and Harel continue their pursuit of excellence. “I don’t think he’s done yet,” Dearborn remarked regarding Guzman’s potential to achieve even greater heights.
