Injuries don't stop Bishop

ALBANY – Incoming freshman Tray Bishop didn’t think he’d be able to compete in this weekend’s state track meet after undergoing some minor knee surgery late last February.

After sitting out all of March and not being cleared until the second week in April, winning the state title in the Class A 100-meter dash was the furthest thing from his mind.

In fact, Saturday’s finals at Hugh Mill Stadium was just the fourth race he’s run the entire year, so it’s easy see why the future Bulldog could not stop smiling after beating seven other competitors to capture the state crown.

Although his time of 11.11 was nowhere near his best, it served its purpose on Saturday.

“I’m not thrilled with the time, but it will do,” Bishop said after the race. “First place, I’ll take it.”

Considering he feared there was no way he’d be competing at all, it’s no wonder.

“This was big for me because last year I thought I had it sewed up before a hamstring injury,” Bishop said. “Then February I had the surgery, followed by a lot of rehab and therapy.”

Bishop said he’s ready to begin his Georgia career.

Although his track speed is still not at previous levels, Bishop says his “football speed” is right where it needs to be.

“Oh yeah, I’m good,” said Bishop. “I’m ready to go.”

Although Bishop wouldn’t go into much detail, he’s ready to get his collegiate career underway.

“We think we can do some special things and I hope to be a big part of it,” said Bishop, who is destined to play safety in the Bulldog secondary. “We think we can be great.”