A series to share #smiles across our community through the achievements of our local youth, brought to you by Olsen Orthodontics.
Written by Carl Cote
(Ethete, WY) – Takara Ferris has been running since fifth grade, and now the Wyoming Indian senior is taking her career to the next level, signing to run cross country at Central Wyoming College in Riverton.
Ferris, who was also recently named prom queen at Wyoming Indian’s prom, said leaving her teammates behind will be the hardest part of moving on.
“I’m just gonna miss all the relationships I’ve built with my sisters,” Ferris said. “My teammates, I consider them my sisters.”
Ferris was a varsity runner all four years at Wyoming Indian, something she said pushed her to set an example for the younger runners coming up behind her.
“I want them to look up to me,” she said. “I just want to inspire them and younger kids… whoever wants to run cross country.”
At CWC, Ferris plans to study cosmetology before eventually pursuing a degree in sports medicine. Her long-term goal is to bring those skills back to her community.
“I really just want to come back and help my community,” she said. “I love it here. I love being home.”
Ferris said she has spoken with her future coach at CWC by phone but has not yet met her new teammates in person, something she is looking forward to.
“I’m excited to make new friendships and just be able to get out in the world,” she said. “Especially my new cross-country career.”
When asked who she wanted to thank, Ferris responded while holding back tears, “I want to thank my mom. She’s really pushed me to be better and I don’t know where I’d be without her.”
She also thanked her grandpa and the coaches she has had over the years for helping her set personal records throughout her career.