Setting A New Provincial Record!
Mella Makes A Move for Gold!
The rigorous cross country training routine is set come rain or shine, come sleet or snow for Arkezia Mella, a Grade 12
Student at Father Lacombe High School with her running mate, Vice Principal, Mrs. Crystal Bertsch at her side. Apart
from the “what ifs”, Miss Mella gives it her all surpassing expectations. This past Saturday, Miss Mella who is legally
blind, captured the gold metal standing in the Para Provincial Cross Country 2km race held in Cochrane. Miss Mella is not
only the first visually impaired student to win this honor but is the first female to win gold in this category. Soft spoken
Mella says, “I am pretty happy. Being an example for other people to go out there and try. I feel good when I run. Mrs.
Bertsch guides me over the terrain and conditions ahead. It’s really cool she runs with me.” Ms. Marjia Susnjar, Father
Lacombe Cross Country Coach is impressed, “In practice she works hard, never gives up and always has a smile on her
face.” Miss Mella continues to train and plans to run in other competitions. Father Lacombe Principal, Ms. Chris Brochu
is astounded by Miss Mella’s innate, spirit, passion and commitment to succeed. “Miss Mella exemplifies to us all that
resiliency combined with dedication can lift barriers beyond expectations.” As for now, Miss Mella is planning her
academic pursuits where she plans to attend Mount Royal University and major in Music. By the way Ms. Mella’s alltime favorite music group is Owl City.
Written by CSSD Father Lacombe Employee, Ms. Ramona Sherry