This year, the GP track season started on March 3, and athletes are filled with anticipation for the challenges ahead. Everyday they dive into their workouts at practice and make sure they are getting prepared for the meets. This routine helps to warm up their muscles and increase their range of motion, which reduces the risk of injury.
Last year, GP achieved remarkable success with 24 student-athletes qualifying for the state competition, a testament to their hard work and dedication. This included a diverse and talented group of both boys and girls. Sophomore Hailey Brack, a top state qualifier in the shot put, said, “It felt amazing knowing all of my hard work over the years and that season had paid off. It was also very nerve wracking to compete in such a competitive and loud environment but I enjoyed every minute of it.” Brack, who suffered an ACL injury during the Winter basketball season, won’t be able to compete this spring, but as a sophomore, her return and success will be something to look forward to during her junior and senior years.
Senior Kora Rex, another state qualifier in discus and javelin, said “This season I am excited to get better in my technique in discus and javelin. I also am excited to build friendships with my teammates and cheer them on in their events. I am hoping to achieve new personal records (PR) and have a good overall mindset this season.” Rex recently signed a letter of intent to compete in track at Hutchinson Community College.
Another track athlete to keep your eye on is Senior Jewel Gallagher. Gallagher was the 2A state champion in the girls pole vault with a vault of 9’6″. This season Gallagher and the Owls will be competing in the 3A division.
This year, they are aiming to surpass that impressive number and send an even larger team to the state meet. Our track team is fortunate to have four exceptional coaches guiding our athletes. Mark Powell, head boys coach, who coaches the runners and hurdlers, providing invaluable guidance and support, said “I am looking forward to all our new athletes and seeing what that can achieve by the end of the season. And I also know our returning athletes are eager to compete this season and try to get back to the state meet at WSU.”
Other coaches this season include: Kelsey Talbott, head coach for the girls and throwers, Page Stuhlsatz-Arnold, pole vault coach, Chris Pauly javelin and relay coach, and Megan Mann who coaches the long and triple jumpers, as well as the high jumpers.
You will have the chance to see the GP athletes compete when they open their season April 4 at Andale High School’s participation meet. The Garden Plain home meet will be held on April 17.
