For Berkeley Institute freshman Jordan Bascome, just being quick in the classroom isn’t enough.Bascome is working day and night to excel not only in the classroom, but also on the track.The 14-year-old pentathlete has already represented Bermuda at track and field events in the US and the Caribbean, and this summer she hopes to entertain the home crowd at the 2012 CARIFTA Games in Bermuda.“I’m trying out for the pentathlon. That’s shot put, 110m hurdles, long jump, high jump and 800m,” she said.“It’s going to be a little nerve wracking. I guess the audience is going to be Bermudians and other people that I know, but I guess I can get through it.”The teenager said she was first introduced to track and field by her gym teacher, who brought her to the Bermuda Pacers. Since then, she has stretched herself between academics and athletics.“In 2009 I was the Caribbean Champion for pentathlete,” she said. “It was my first time representing Bermuda internationally so I was surprised, but I was so proud of myself.“I know my parents were proud and my coach was proud.“I have also been on Principle’s List since my P6 year and I took my GCSE math last year, two years before I was supposed to take it.”Despite all the stress, she said she is hoping to take on even more sports in the future, becoming a heptathlete or decathlete, with the dream of one day qualifying for the Olympics.At the same time, she plans on continuing her education, hopefully becoming either a veterinarian or an astronomer.“I have always loved animals. If I see one in trouble I help it. As far as astronomy, I just remember wanting to know what’s out their in space.”She said it can be a challenge to organise training, studying and a social life, but said her secret was simply scheduling.“Track and field is four days a week. I’m used to it, but it is difficult. Fridays, and after track meets on Saturdays and Sundays I can relax. My friends are supportive, and we hang out when I have free time.”She said other young people should give track and field events a shot, saying: “Track and field is a great sport. You make a lot of friends, you have nice people supporting you.“I like the fitness element, and I get to travel a lot through track. I have been to the Bahamas, North Carolina and St Kitts.”