January 9, 2026 Local Stories in and Around St. Joseph, Illinois

Hard work key to Gaskin’s success

St. Joseph-Ogden senior track athlete Lane Gaskin is a hard worker.


Boys track coach Jason Retz said Gaskin is willing to put in the work to be the best.


Gaskin placed fifth in the 200 meter at the indoor state track meet and led the 800 meter relay team to second place at the indoor state track meet.


“He’s a very hard worker,” Retz said.


Gaskin said he would like to continue running in college where he wants to major in criminal justice or athletic training.


At SJO his favorite class is American History with Mr. Beckett because the content of the class is interesting.


“And Mr. Beckett makes the class fun,” he said.


The runner, who was named Athlete of the Month, said the best thing about being a student-athlete at SJO is the support from the town and school.


“The best thing would have to be the congratulations that come in days after a meet,” he said.


Gaskin said it was an honor to be nominated by his coach for the award.


“I feel as if being nominated by my coach means he believes in me, has trust in me and has enough faith in me to nominate me,’ he said.

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