By Ryder Heitz
NEWELL—Newell sent seven athletes to the State Track & Field Meet in Sioux Falls on May 23-25. Qualifiers were Rachel Erk (100M, 200M, Long Jump, and 4x100M), Clint Winkler (3200M), Hailey McCann (4x100M), Sarah Erk (High Jump, 4x100M), Bejae Tesch (High Jump), Mesa Mangis (Triple Jump, 4x100M), and Eirelyn Bender (Discus).
Newell had a great showing at the first day of State, with Rachel Erk running a personal record in the 100M of 12.83, which qualified her for the finals in that event. Mesa Mangis received 17th place in triple jump with a 31’7” height. Additionally, Newell’s 4×100 team ran a 53.69, which placed 17th and was their season best time.
The next day was also successful, with Clint Winkler getting a personal record in 3200M and a time of 10.44. Winkler placed 12th. Sarah Erk jumped 4’9” in the high jump and placed 11th. Rachel Erk then ran a 27.82 in 200M, earning a placement of 14th. The day finished up with Eirelyn Bender’s 93’ throw in discus, placing her 23rd in the event.
The last day of state track was an eventful one for Rachel Erk. Though she didn’t place in long jump, she did take her final step onto the podium with an 8th place in the 100M dash.
