Freshman Amir Azhykeev kneels at the start line, ears peeled in anticipation. As soon as the takeoff signal blasts through the air, he takes off, focusing on nothing but the rhythm of his breathing and the sound of his feet hitting the ground.

Azhykeev began his running journey in sixth grade during Mile Club at Miller Middle School, where students ran laps every Friday in physical education. While he initially ran just for the grade and milestone t-shirts, the sport became a way for him to socialize with others when comparing results. Having moved from Kyrgyzstan the summer before sixth grade, Azhykeev had a hard time fitting in and making new friends — Mile Club helped him gain friendships and meet the teammates that he still runs with today.

“I really had no topics to talk about when I was in sixth grade and didn’t know much English at the time,” Azhykeev said.

Urged to join by his friends, Azhykeev participated in Miller’s cross country and track and field teams in eighth grade. For cross country, he enjoyed running with his friends and improving, despite the limited running areas and simple running games. In track and field, Azhykeev ran the mile and 800-meter, which he chose as he prefers longer running events over sprinting.

“Since it was really hot in the fall, our coaches would just let us play games like sharks and minnows, have an easy run and enjoy Otter Pops,” Azhykeev said.

Having enjoyed his experience during middle school, Azhykeev joined Lynbrook’s track and field and cross country teams when he entered high school. Compared to Miller, he appreciated the additional freedom of being able to run anywhere with a group and explore new places instead of being confined to the Miller campus or needing their coach to run with them.

“It’s just my thoughts,” Azhykeev said. “I can think freely. I don’t have to think about my homework or tests that I have due tomorrow. I can just enjoy my time with myself while running.”

Despite how much he enjoyed running, there were challenges that came with the sport. Since practices often lasted past 7 p.m, Azhykeev would have to sacrifice time and learn how to balance his running with academics.

This year, he also sustained an injury after running too hard on his first day back from winter break and getting a shin splint. Ever since, Azhykeev has been working on recovery and hopes to return next year fully healed and ready to compete.

“I was satisfied with my season performance even though I know I could have done better,” Azhykeev said. “I know I’m still a freshman and have a lot of time to improve in the upcoming years.”

Even though there were challenges throughout his journey, Azhykeev has felt improvement physically with his speed and pacing, as well as mentally with his confidence.

“It’s the discipline of showing up every day,” Azhykeev said. “Just pushing through the hard parts, the tests and managing to keep up with the work with constant pressure.”