(Chelsea Update would like to thank Eric Swager for the information in this story. Full results are at the bottom of the story.)
For the fifth consecutive year, the Chelsea boys track and field team won the Regional Championship on May 19 beating 15 other teams.
“To beat 15 other schools is quite a feat, and to continue the streak for 5 years is pretty amazing,” said Eric Swager.
The team had to overcome a big setback, as senior sprinter Lawrence Buckley went down with a hamstring pull halfway through his first preliminary race.
“That put a damper on the hopes for a couple relays, and the open 400 dash,” said Swager, who added, “However, we rallied as a team and picked up the slack, putting together some incredible performances.”
Highlights:
The winning 4×800 relay team (Oates, Heaney, Rabbitt, Gilbreath) ran a scorching 8:04 and qualified for state finals.
The 1600 run with 3 placers (Oates, Heaney, Rabbitt)
The 800 run with 3 placers (Oates, Heaney, Gilbreath)
The 3200 run with 2 placers (Oates, Holm)
Chris Roush finishing runner up in the 400 and qualifying for state.
Cam Cooper placing in both the 100 and 200 dashes
James Mida winning the discus and qualifying for the state finals.
Pole Vaulters Josh Wikerson and Mike Tarasow placed in that event.
We also placed in the 4×200 relay, 4×400 relay, and High Jump
“I thought 100 points would win the regional, and in spite of the injury, we were able to accrue 96 – good enough for the victory, Swager said. “Once again, the distance squad (wearing their new Kenyan shorts) really carried the load, scoring 58 points.”
Tom Oates earned 3 regional titles, and qualified for state in 4 events.
“I am really proud of the attitude of this group, and the way we hung together this year through all the adversity. I would also like to thank the assistant coaches, parents, and fans who continue to make Chelsea Track the special program that it is,” the coach said.
Qualifiers look forward to the state finals in Zeeland on June 3.
