School error throws teen athlete off track

Teenage dreams can be both larger-than-life and as fragile as a dragonfly’s gossamer wings. There’s frequently little parents can do to protect their child from the hurt and pain that comes with the life lessons one must live through to learn.

However, there are times when suffering is not required, though it often happens nonetheless. Such is the case with young Claire Markonic. The Webutuck High School junior is the district’s top track athlete — the only one to qualify for this year’s state championships. That, in and of itself, is a feat worthy of praise.