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A leap of faith
By CAREY FREEMAN, Times Staff Writer INVERNESS -- Just what is ailing Myesha Hollis? That's a question more than a few at Citrus are pondering -- including Hollis, who has missed the past month of athletic competition due to a mysterious stomach illness. "Nobody knows what it is," Hollis said. "When I start running, I feel sick to my stomach. "I have one more doctor appointment, and it's getting better," she said. "One doctor gave me pills for my stomach, and they've been working pretty good." Just not good enough to get her off the sidelines. Hollis has visited three doctors, and none have been able to diagnose the problem. At least one cited a low potassium level, but wasn't sure if that was the cause of Hollis' troubles. Count Hurricanes first-year coach Ian Feldt among those hoping the symptoms will improve. Hollis, who competes in five events, is the anchor of the Citrus team. Feldt doesn't want to experience what basketball coach Bruce Nelson did during the final weeks of the season, when Hollis' absence from the lineup may have cost the 'Canes a playoff berth. "Given the choice, I'd rather have her healthy and running now," Feldt said. "She's capable of doing 19 feet in the long jump, which is pretty impressive, and we expect the same thing this year or better." While not her favorite, the long jump is Hollis' best event. Last season, she jumped 18 feet to take second in the regional meet and finished ninth at state after a subpar performance of 17 feet. Hollis also competes in the 100 and 200-yard sprints, 4x100 relay and triple jump, in which she placed eighth in the state last year. Watching as her teammates warmed up Tuesday, Hollis said she desperately wants to be a factor after enduring the hardship of viewing the final weeks of the basketball season from the bench. "I really wanted to go in and play so bad," Hollis said. "but I just can't do it when I'm sick. I want to get better, and I wish I was out there right now." There may be an upside to all of this. The rest could pay off by giving Hollis fresher legs later in the season. If that happens, and she isn't weakened too much by her recovery, then Hollis may be able to attain her goals. "It might," Hollis said. "When I get better, I'm going to work hard to get even better than I was last year. Hopefully, I'll get at least 19 (feet). That's what I'm aiming for this year. If I don't, I'm not going to cry about it. But it would be nice."
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