LA GRULLA – Abigail Flores is feeling pretty good about herself. The Grulla High School junior recently won the class 4A state title in the discus throw.

"It was amazing to find out that I was going to be the state champ,” said Flores. “It was a relief because I had butterflies in my stomach.”

Last year, Flores won a bronze medal at state. She was determined to come back stronger.

Her best throw this season was 148 feet, 3 inches. That’s 20 inches farther than she threw in 2017.

“It’s amazing because of the progress,” said Flores. “I can see the progress in me because next year I’m going to throw better and hopefully get another state championship.”

An injury delayed her start to the season, but she quickly found her groove, earning district, area, and regional championships before the final gold at state.

“Her dedication, commitment, and everything was put into that weight room and out here at practice,” said Grulla coach Jesseca Carrera. “In this type of weather, pretty much high temperatures, she had to work out like there was no tomorrow.”

Flores is only the second Grulla athlete and the first girl on her campus to win a UIL gold medal in athletics.

“It gives me lots of pride to do it because this is a small school and a small town,” said Flores. “Putting your school out there is a good feeling.”