March 13, 2001

This story was written and photographed by students on the Santana High School newspaper staff. The school district had requested that outside media not attend.

SANTEE -- There was one last lap around the track for Bryan and Randy.

More than 1,000 students, teachers and parents at yesterday's memorial stood silently as Santana's track team captains circled the track carrying flags in honor of Randy Gordon and Bryan Zuckor, killed in the March 5 shooting at Santana High School. Randy and Bryan were members of the track team.

And before the team captains, Kevin Wilson and Nicola D'angelo, circled the track, two World War II aircraft flew overhead and tipped their wings in honor of Randy and Bryan.

Track coach Dale Sheehan was among those who shared memories of Bryan and Randy and expressed optimism for the future of the school and the community.

"Randy always gave 100 percent at every workout and every meet," Sheehan said. "He regularly set new and higher goals for himself and gave whatever was necessary to achieve them."

Sheehan told some lighthearted stories about Randy, including one about his favorite track team rituals, Slurpee runs, when she treated the team after especially hard workouts.

"And he was a cookie monster," said Sheehan. "He baked me snickerdoodles at Christmas."

Two friends of Bryan's -- Jonathan Ford and Tom Lloyd -- shared memories of him.

"They say that every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings. Here's to you, Bryan," said Tom, as he rang a bell.

Ray Serrato, who was Randy Gordon's best friend and the last shooting victim to be released from the hospital, was at the campus service, along with the 12 others who were injured. As their names were read, everyone stood and applauded.

California first lady Sharon Davis, a 1972 Santana graduate, expressed her appreciation of the community's response to the tragedy.

"The laws of physics say that for every action, there is an equal reaction," said Davis. "The actions of one person devastated so many lives. And now we see the reactions of others, the expressions of kindness and support for the Gordons and the Zuckors."

Junior Daniel Hayden, a track team member and close friend of Randy's, said everyone can learn from what kind of person Randy was.

"Randy discovered the joy of giving to others," Daniel said. "Although he didn't always have it easy, he chose to take the high road."

Michelle Farres was Bryan's physical-education teacher.

"My heart is heavy," Farres said. "Bryan's life was so short, so innocent, and so sheltered."

Jeremy Nicks, a Santana alumnus who overcame cancer in high school to become an inspirational speaker, praised Santana's unquenchable spirit.

"Santana, you have faced a tragic event," said Nicks. "But your attitude and response are heroic and inspiring."

Sophomore Caitlin McKenzie said, "It was a heartwarming memorial for two fine young gentlemen whose lives were cut tragically short."

Randy's mother, Mari Gordon-Rayborn, spoke of the future, of not answering violence with violence.

"Randy wouldn't have wanted anybody else to get hurt," she said. "I know it's hard right now, but it's really important that we start to heal."

The Helix Drum and Bagpipe Corps played "Amazing Grace" and 15 white doves were released on the final plaintive note.