Athlete Spotlight: James Wood track athlete Emma Hammond

Parents: Anna and Neil Hammond.

What do you love about track & field: I love how it’s an individual sport, but then in the end you come together as a team.

Most memorable moment in track & field: At the Strasburg meet this year, when I jumped 37-4. I knew it was a good jump. I went over to see what it was, but I didn’t think it was that good. [Coach Ryan] Whittle looked down at it and said, ‘That’s a new school record.’

Most embarrassing moment in track & field: At the Strasburg meet, we were doing run-throughs. At first they were going to keep that pit closed, but they opened it up on the girls’ side. There was a lot of water in it and I completely fell on my face. It was OK, because I ended up with a PR.

Three people you can have dinner with, dead or alive: My great-grandfather Paul Ruff, who passed away when I was a freshman during track season. I just feel like he would be proud of me. When I was in gymnastics, he was always so proud of me. Paige Hathaway, she’s a female body builder and fitness model. Nate Sowers, during my freshman year, really got me into lifting and I’ve always wanted to be like her. Future, the rap singer because he’s like my second favorite artist.

Food you can’t live without and why: Chicken. Just grilled chicken. I like it from home best. It’s just a staple of what I eat.

Favorite teacher: Miss [Tracy] Tanger, she teaches Spanish, but she’s also been my study hall teacher for three years. She’s always there for me. She always makes sure I’m OK. She always makes sure I’m caught up in my work or that I’m doing my work.

Favorite athlete: Simone Biles

Favorite team: U.S. women’s gymnastics team

Favorite TV show: “Modern Family”

Favorite song: “Some Way” by The Weekend

Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate with chocolate sprinkles. Pack’s is my favorite

Plans after high school: I’m going to try to go to Hagerstown Community College and do track there. I may study mental health or something to do with health and fitness.

— Compiled by Walt Moody