Shantine Demasse is a technician.

The Highlands Ranch senior is a long jumper and triple jumper on the track team but she is 5-foot-7, weighs less than 100 pounds and has to compete against bigger and sometimes faster athletes.

However, her technique is so good that she is competitive against many of the top jumpers in the state.

“Technique is incredibly important,” said Demasse. “There are so many girls that are built really athletic. They are strong and have really long legs but they don't jump very far because they don't know what they are doing. That's the one thing I have is my technique and that is really what gets me as far as I go.

“I am usually the smallest one out there, and especially with the triple jump, if you don't have the right technique you are not going to go very far. I work on technique every day pretty much.”

Key stats:

At the Liberty Bell Invitational on April 26, Demasse won the long jump with a season best 17-7.75 and triple jump at 36-9.5. She had a 37-3.50 triple jump a week earlier.

Coach's take:

`She has great technique and work ethic. It stands her apart from the other people.'

Lou Krauss,

Highlands Ranch track coach

Q&A with Demasse

What's your goal this season?

My top goal this year is to break the school record (18-3.75) in the long jump. Right now I hold the second spot in the long jump. In practice I've had so many big jumps. I just need to put it all together and put my mark on the board. I feel that I can get it.

What or who motivates you most to excel in track?

My coach, Lou Krauss. Usually if I'm down on myself or haven't been jumping well, he'll get me focused on what I have to do.

What would be a perfect performance in your sport?

Setting the school record would be amazing. Even if I didn't set the record, just to PR and see my teammates win would be awesome. If the whole team has a great day, I'm in a good mood.

What is your favorite class in school and why?

I really don't have a favorite but I do draw a lot in class if that counts. So I guess I would say science classes. I wish I had taken more art classes.

What do you like to do away from sports and school?

I'm super big on art and plan on majoring in studio art. When I have free time I will probably be doodling or watching movies.

What are your plans after high school?

I am going to Northern Arizona University. I pretty sure I am going to major in studio art. I probably won't be doing track because it's a lot to handle at the college level. I want to get out and enjoy the college experience. I might walk on if I have the time.

How much time do you spend in the weight room?

I spend a lot of time in the weight room, especially this year, probably an hour after practice. I especially work on my legs.

What is your favorite food?

I could eat Chinese food all day, every day.