Ten events, two days – it’s the sport that pushes athletes to their limits. It’s the decathlon, and De Anza’s own Marko Vatavuk is set to face that task.

Vatavuk’s success hasn’t been a straight shot. After moving to the United States from Croatia his freshman year of high school, Vatavuk tried his luck at football, cycling and soccer before introduced to track and field. He admits he wasn’t very good at the 110 and 300 meters when he started his freshman year at Westmont High School, but he fell in love with the sport. For that reason, it was his coaches who encouraged him to pursue his talent.

Being a quick learner has worked to Vatavuk’s advantage. In fact, he mastered the 14’5″ pole vault in a year, a feat that takes some athletes years to accomplish. Currently, Vatavuk is one of the top pole vaulters in Northern California.

“The decathlon tests you in every way physically possible,” said Vatavuk. “The hardest part of training is getting everything done on time.” To keep training from feeling like a daunting task, Vatavuk practices more on events he excels while putting his weaker events aside.

Out of all track and field events, Vatavuk lists the 400 meters as the easiest because it comes naturally to him and “isn’t too complicated.” On the flip side, he says the 110 meters the hardest. It requires Vatavuk to be in top shape and have perfect technique and form. The event that has his heart is pole vaulting. “It’s where I feel most comfortable,” said Vatavuk. No matter where track and field takes him in the future, Vatavuk says he will always pole vault – even if it’s only just for fun.

Despite all the time that track and field consumes, Vatavuk devotes time to other aspects of his life as well. He is a mechanical engineering major and hopes to transfer to Cal Poly Pomona. He has a long-term goal of inventing something someday. With his remaining free time, although limited, Vatavuk DJs house music locally.

Vatavuk’s next big task is the upcoming Northern California Multi Event Championship that will take place in Sacramento on April 20 and 21. Vatavuk is a returning state qualifier in the decathlon and will face the feat once again. “I am nervous and excited about Sacramento, but I have a good feeling about it,” said Vatavuk. “I am expected to be in the top three.”