AMHERST - If people at Amherst Regional High School didn't know the name Stephen Belyea before the provincial track and field championships, it's a name they know now.
The Grade-10, ARHS student won gold in the long jump and triple jump, and a silver medal in the 100 metres at the 2012 Nova Scotia School's Athletic Federation Provincial Track and Field Championships Friday and Saturday at the Cape Breton University Field in Sydney.
"I was really surprised I won silver in the 100 metres," said Belyea. "I came second in regionals, so I didn't have too high of expectations."
Belyea said his speed isn't just natural, it also comes through hard work.
"I go quite often to train with (classmate) Willie Legere and we work on speed and cardio," he said.
He said it was cool to win two gold medals in jumping.
"Jumping is my better events, but I was still surprised to come first," he said.
Belyea's skills were recognized when he received the Male Track and Field MVP Award during the ARHS 2012 Sports Awards Banquet June 4, at the ARHS cafeteria.
"I didn't expect to get the award but other people told me I was going to get it, so I was pretty happy," he said.
Asked how did he felt being put in the spotlight at the awards, Belyea said, "It's pretty cool. I'm not used to it."
Belyea also likes playing hockey and baseball, and said, "I'm not sure but I might try out for the major midget team in Pictou this year."
dmathieson@amherstdaily.com
