Elmont athletes celebrated for accomplishments

The Elmont Memorial High School community celebrated the achievements of decorated athletes at the school on March 26.

Around 60 neighbors, athletes and students gathered in the school’s cafeteria to celebrate rising track star senior Ashley Fulton and the Elmont boys’ basketball team.

Fulton crushed the state and federation record on March 2 at Ocean Breeze Track and Field Facility on Staten Island, running a 300-meter dash in 38.15 seconds. Kyle Plante set the previous record in 2012 with a 38.23 seconds time.

“We had Ashley Fulton, in the 300 meter, not only in the state but in the federation indoor champion,” said Kru Patel, athletic director. “What that means is she is the number one runner in New York State.”

Neighbors were excited to celebrate Fulton for her accomplishments and the boys’ basketball team for their accomplishments this season, having captured the New York State Class AA boys’ basketball title.

Legislator Carrié Solages and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages recognized the athletes for their hard work and dedication at the ceremony.

Carrié thanked the athletes for their commitment to their sports on behalf of the county.

“I want you to understand that you can take that same success, that same formula, and use that to get into grad school, college, start your own business, raise a family or change the world,” he said. “It’s that same formula. And that same motivation that you have gained from being state champions — use that in every test that comes before you in the future, and you will succeed.”

Grace Amoafo, district director for Michaelle’s office, handed out citations for Fulton and the basketball team and read a statement on the assemblywoman’s behalf.

“The accomplishments are astounding,” Amoafa said, reading from the statement. “And I know that the rest of the district is also proud. A great state is only as great as its citizens who achieve greatness through a high level of teamwork, dedication and hard work.”

Elmont Memorial High School’s Spartan Club put the event together to celebrate the athlete’s accomplishments. Students in the school’s Key Club and Men of Elmont helped distribute food and drinks to guests.