West Central Reporter

Aylana Ferreira Cezar, a member of the Western Illinois University cross country and track and field team, represented Brazil at the Pan American Games last week. Competing in the 3000-meter steeplechase, Cezar finished eighth against an international field.

Reflecting on her experience, Cezar said, "It was a step into my dream, the beginning of something bigger, which shows I'm on the right track. I want to make the Olympics, and making the Junior team now feels rewarding, because I've put years of my life and so much effort into this."

Cezar also spoke about competing at an international level: "It was definitely a different environment. To represent my country adds to it. It was amazing to have so many people watching at the track stadium and on the livestream. From the first day, arriving at the hotel, till I returned home, the infrastructure COB (Olympic Brazilian Committee) and Team Brazil prepared for the athletes was amazing."

Looking ahead to her final collegiate season with Western Illinois University Leathernecks Women's Track & Field, Cezar outlined her goals: "Talking about times, I want to break the XC school record and be all-conference and hopefully lead the team to a team title as well." She added that her recent experience has increased her motivation: "It motivates me for this season; it is my senior year, so I am excited to run some fast times, and for cross country, I am excited to see what this team can do."

Cezar will now prepare for upcoming competitions with Western Illinois.