News Summary

The Gardner Area High School Girls Track and Field team is making headlines this spring with standout performances from athletes like Krista Bettez, Karii Falconi, and Sarah Horgan. As the season nears its close, excitement builds for the Athlete of the Year vote, recognizing the talent and dedication of these incredible athletes who have not only excelled in their events but have also fostered a team spirit. With many young stars emerging, the future of Gardner track looks promising as they continue to push the competitive envelope.

Gardner Area High School Girls Track and Field Athletes Shine: Vote for Athlete of the Year

Spring has definitely brought its unique magic to Gardner, where young athletes are taking center stage, especially those in the Girls Track and Field team. With an impressive lineup of talent showcasing their skills this season, it’s no wonder that excitement is in the air as residents get ready to vote for the coveted Athlete of the Year. This year’s competition promises to be fierce, with standout performances making headlines left and right!

Krista Bettez: The Comeback Kid

Leading the charge is Krista Bettez, who has made a phenomenal return to track and field after a break during her junior year. It’s not just her comeback that’s caught attention; she has already committed to UMass Lowell as a Division I athlete! Bettez has showcased her versatility, qualifying for the states in the 2-mile, mile, 800 meters, and even the pole vault. As the top point scorer for Gardner throughout the spring, she’s set quite a precedent and has even competed in the triple jump. Her incredible performance earned her Mid-Wach C league all-star honors!

Karii Falconi: A Multi-Talented Star

Next up is Karii Falconi, an athlete who has truly made waves. With a league title win in the 100 meters and shot put, she also secured impressive finishes in the 200 meters and long jump at the league meet. Not one to be underestimated, Falconi clinched a spot in the Div. 5 state championship for three events! She held her own at the state championship too, finishing in the top 10 for the 100 meters, 200 meters, and shot put. What a season!

Sarah Horgan: Throwing Her Weight Around

Sarah Horgan has been throwing her way into the spotlight as well, dominating the javelin event. She had an undefeated streak during the Mid-Wach C league dual meets and crowned herself the league champion! Her remarkable abilities took her even further, winning at the District E relay meet and the Div. 1 District E championship. Horgan finished ninth at the Meet of Champions and made her mark at the New England Championship, proving that she’s a serious contender on any stage.

Meg Laprade: Vaulting to Success

Meg Laprade has also contributed immensely to the Panthers with her strong performance. Finishing second overall on her team, she earned Mid-Wach C league all-star honors, excelling in the pole vault, 100 meter hurdles, and 400 meter hurdles during the league championship meet. With qualifications for the Div. 5 state championship, she showcased her talent, placing third in pole vault while competing in the Central Mass. heptathlon. Talk about an athlete on the rise!

Rachel LeBlanc and Shamus Solomon: Rising Stars

Rachel LeBlanc stood out at the Mid-Wach E league championship with a first place win in high jump, alongside commendable finishes in the 100 meter hurdles and triple jump. Qualifying for the Div. 6 state meet in high jump solidifies her prowess in the field. The team also witnessed a young prodigy in Shamus Solomon, a seventh grader taking on older athletes. Her performances gave her a remarkable third place in both the 800 meters and mile at the Mid-Wach E league championship, earning her the Rookie of the Year title for her team!

Watch Out for Young Talent

Indeed, the future looks bright with budding talents such as Leah Deane and Ruby Keating from the Warriors, along with Natalia Marchand from Quabbin, who are expected to leave their mark this spring.

As we round off the season, it is clear that these incredible athletes are not just excelling in their respective events but are elevating the spirit and camaraderie of the Gardner area. With a single senior on the team, the focus remains on skill development and pushing the competitive envelope in track and field. So, let’s gear up to support these outstanding athletes by casting our votes for the Athlete of the Year!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Changes to High School Track and Field Rules for 2026 Season
City Celebrates Local Lacrosse Stars
Buchholz High School Cross Country Teams Achieve Historic Victory
NCAA Championships Ignite Excitement in Eugene: Track, Basketball, Volleyball, and Baseball Highlights
Delhi Township Launches All-Girls Sports Complex
Arizona Celebrates Track and Field Legends
Oregon High School Athletes Challenge Transgender Sports Participation
Central Massachusetts Celebrates Girls’ Lacrosse Talent
Discrimination Claim Disrupts Eagle High School Basketball
Columbia University Women’s Soccer Welcomes New Talent

Additional Resources