DJ Kleefeld’s ambitions stretch beyond the finish line of a single sport. The Ponderosa High School freshman competes in cross country, track and field, and cycling, bringing goals to each discipline.
A member of the Class of 2030, Kleefeld says he has helped his cross country team earn multiple awards. Now, he is looking ahead to track season with two targets: breaking two minutes in the 800 meters and chasing the school’s 400-meter record, which he lists at 49.06 seconds.
Those goals demand different strengths. The 800 tests speed and endurance, while the 400 requires an athlete to sustain a fast pace through an entire lap. Kleefeld is eager to challenge himself in both.
His competitive interests also extend to mountain biking, cyclocross and cycling. He has been racing and is joining his high school’s cycling team this year, adding another team experience to his athletic journey.
Looking further ahead, Kleefeld hopes to explore triathlons and endurance competitions such as HYROX and Spartan races. His biggest ambitions include completing an Ironman in under eight hours or turning professional in one of his sports.
Kleefeld reached out after seeing Ponderosa teammates Austin Jones and Emmy Angelo, along with close friend Dillon Esola, featured by Sacramento Sports Tribune. Now, he is sharing his own story a freshman with several competitive paths to explore and clear goals for the season ahead.
