As he inhales a deep breath, freshman Cameron St. Martin clears his mind and peers down at the ground far below him. Standing high atop the roof, he thrusts his body into the air and performs an exhilarating j-step.St. Martinfeels at peace in a free fall to the ground that would leave most people frozen in fear.
St. Martinbecame enthralled with risk-taking activities such as parkour and free run at the age 11. Parkour is a method of training that focuses on balanced movement. The objective is to move around objects with efficiency and speed by vaulting, running, climbing and rolling through whatever obstacles emerge. Free run, on the other hand, focuses mainly on self-expression and creativity, the two componentsSt. Martinenjoys most.
“By participating in [parkour], I am able to create an exciting environment,” saidSt. Martin. “I love to entertain people, and when the audience claps for me [I realize that] all my hard work has paid off.”
Parkour instructors Jesse Le Flair, Drew Fourage, Colin Irwin and Anthony Valentino inspiredSt. Martinto utilize good work ethic. BecauseSt. Martinis also involved in gymnastics and cheerleading, he has learned to manipulate his body in intricate ways, while maintaining precision in his movements. After building a strong foundation for parkour,St. Martinis able to dedicate himself to perfecting new tricks.
“I have learned that hard work leads to good things in life,” saidSt. Martin. “I would not be able to engage in the physical art form and do things like a standing back flip without commitment.”
Parkour and free run allowSt. Martinto push the limits set by the human body. Through ways he previously considered unimaginable,St. Martincan completely defy the laws of gravity.
“Cameron brings a different, fun energy to the team,” said cheerleading coach Rachel Kay. “His work ethic is very admirable, and he is very determined. His skill level continues to improve, and he gets stronger everyday.”
St. Martinhopes that what he has acquired through parkour and free run will enable him to be a stunt man for television and action movies. For the time being, however,St. Martincan simply enjoy life in stride, one building at a time. •
