Orange Lutheran junior Dean Lozano has been running since he was six years old. Now a member of OLu's track and field team, the 17-year old specializes in the middle-distance events for the Lancers.

Lozano's focus is on the 800 meters, and he is a key contributor in several relays, including the 4x200-meter, 4x400-meter and 4x800-meter races. While middle-distance training is demanding, he finds motivation in the challenge.

"I love the environment," says Lozano "It's not really a sprint, but it's not very long either. It's more in between. I also love that it's not as easy as the other races."

Lozano's personal goals for the season include breaking the individual school records for both the 400-meter and 800-meter events. He's already had a strong relay season with wins in the 8x200 and the 4x400 events at the Earl Engman Relays last month, as well as a new meet record in the 4x200 at the West Coast Classic earlier this month.

"Dean is quiet but determined to be great," says OLu track and field head coach Kevin Gillian. "His work ethic and drive separate him from most others."

After struggling last season with injuries, Lozano wasn't sure he wanted to continue running. But he turned to Isaiah 40:31 and found a renewed commitment to the sport.

"Last year, I really wanted to quit," says Lozano, "but then I read Isaiah 40:31: 'But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint,' and that motivated me to keep pushing."

Running has taught Lozano that if he wants something badly enough, he has to be willing to work for it. It's also taught him discipline, which he carries into his daily Bible reading. He views the sport as a ministry and an opportunity to share his faith.

"I love that I can run and bring people to Christ," says Lozano. "I want to be the light and show the right path… I can express my faith more, and I don't have to be ashamed of the gospel."

When he's not on the track, Lozano plays trombone in OLu's marching band, an interest sparked by his grandfather, who performed in jazz bands and for groups such as the Temptations. While he's only been playing for less than two years, he has found a supportive community in the program. 

"I've enjoyed the environment, the encouragement, and that we can put on a show," says Lozano.

Looking ahead to when he graduates in 2027, Lozano would welcome the opportunity to compete in track at the collegiate level, where he plans to study environmental biology. He considers Forrest Frank, one of his favorite singers, as a role model, and he credits his parents for being key influences in his life. 

"They inspire me to just be a better person," says Lozano of his mom and dad, "and to live like Christ."