Nylah Martin, Heart of a Champion, Spirit from within

May 1, 2018 | PC Sports

Nylah Martin is a very special and talented 6^th grader at Pearl City Elementary School. Nylah recently won the 6th Grade 400 Meter Dash at the Pearl City Complex Track Meet held at Pearl City High School on Friday, April 28. Nylah ran with a heavy heart and the spirit of her late father, James Martin who passed away a few days before the meet on Wednesday, April 25. With her father’s spirit on her shoulders, within her heart, and with every stride, and with her mom Hannah and the Martin ohana in the stands cheering her on, Nylah became a champion after breaking the meet record of 1:12.37 with a new meet record time of 1:08.57. Ashley Won (Manana) 1:11.12 and Summer Shook (Kanoelani) 1:11.50 finished behind Nylah in second and third place while also breaking the previous record set back in 2014.

In a unique expression of respect and unity, all Pearl City Elementary track students wore black and gold ribbons in honor of her dad and his favorite colors and team, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Nylah led the way with her smile and determination to win, as well as to cheer her teammates on with each race and field event while representing their school with pride.

“Nylah has been at Pearl City Elementary since Kindergarten,” said Tammy Calbero, PCEL Counselor. “She is a fun – loving, joyous, and a helpful child. During this tough time, she has shown that she can be strong and rally to make her dad, and family, proud. She is a star in our eyes!”

Congratulations to a very special champion who has inspired us all!

Prayers are sent for your Dad. May God Bless…