MEEKER | Spring is just around the corner and it is Cowboy track season. Meeker has 50 athletes that include a mix of returning seniors and underclassmen. Returning Cowboy seniors are state qualifiers Andy Kracht, Tannen Kennedy and Pake Burke.
“Kracht should shine this year in the jumping and sprinting events,” said Head Coach John Strate, “Kennedy looks to qualify again in the mid-distance events, and Burke looks to continue the success he had last year in the hurdles.”
The lady Cowboys have numerous seniors coming back who are all state placers. Megan Shelton and Sydnie Main look to repeat their strong performances they had last year in the shotput and discus. Main is also a vaulter and between her and Kenzie Turner the Cowboys have a solid group of vaulters returning. Gracie Bradfield looks to continue a successful career in the sprints and relays. Briar Meszaros is coming off a strong cross country season and qualified for state track as a sophomore but narrowly missed last year and she will contribute in the distance events and relays.
The Cowboys also look to the underclassmen as the list continues for state qualifiers: Kirsten Brown—jumping events and relays, Karlee Nielsen—relays, Tevin Pelloni—pole vault, Colby Clatterbaugh—pole vault, Spud White—relays and sprints, Jeremy Woodward—relays, sprints and jumping events.
“We are also fortunate to have a very experienced group of coaches returning,” Strate said. Greg Cravens (throwing events), Kris Casey (jumping events, hurdles, distance), Shane Phelan (jumping events), Heather Burke (hurdles), Hallie Blunt (weights), Marki Grant (sprints and relays), Kenny Rennick (distance running), Coley Turner (pole vault) and Kirk Hossack (sprints). “Having so many qualified coaches is a huge part of our program,” continued Strate, “The event specific help has been a big part of our past success.
The first track meet of the season will not feature all of the athletes as most of the girls just finished with basketball. The first meet will be in Rifle, Colo., Friday, March 15, weather permitting.
By Tiffany Jehorek | Special to the Herald Times
