News Summary

As spring approaches, Minnesota high schools are buzzing with anticipation for the track and field season. With over 32,000 student-athletes participating last year, it’s clear this sport continues to grow in popularity. Athletes like Keefer and Drevlow, along with many talented newcomers, promise excitement on the tracks. Expect thrilling competition, impressive performances, and unforgettable moments as the season unfolds. Schools prepare for a dynamic season ahead, showcasing both seasoned champions and ambitious newcomers ready to make their mark.

Excitement Builds in Minnesota as Track and Field Season Approaches

As spring approaches, the buzz around Minnesota high schools is tangible—it’s nearly track and field season! Over an impressive 32,000 student-athletes joined in on the excitement last year, making it not just popular, but the largest high school sport in the state! Schools are gearing up and training hard, and fans can expect thrilling competition as some of the best athletes return to the tracks.

A Race of Talent

Among the standouts in this year’s lineup is Keefer, a senior from St. Michael-Albertville. Known for his speed, he has caught the eyes of several Division I colleges. Just last year, Keefer finished second in the 100 meters at state with an amazing time of 11.96 seconds and clinched third in the 200 meters at 24.98 seconds.

In a different heat, Minnetonka’s senior sprinter shined brightly last June, winning the Class 3A state title in the 200 meters with an impressive time of 24.52 seconds, just a hair’s breadth away from her personal record of 24.41 seconds. In the meantime, Fridley’s junior hurdler made headlines with a triumphant win at the Class 2A state meet, clocking in at 37.66 seconds in the 300 hurdles!

Fresh Faces and Established Champs

This year’s roster is packed with both seasoned champions and talented newcomers. Senior Phrakonkham from Bagley/Fosston stole the show last season, bagging state titles in the 100 meters with a swift time of 11.8 seconds, the 200 meters at 24.60 seconds, and even conquered the 4×100 relay! She’s set her sights on continuing her journey by committing to run for North Dakota.

Meanwhile, Hopkins senior Drevlow has set high expectations for herself after winning the state title in the 800 meters, eyeing a record-breaking goal after her exhilarating performance at the Nike Outdoor Nationals, where she posted an outstanding time of 2:09.44.

Jumping to New Heights

Athletes are not just speeding around tracks; they’re also jumping to incredible distances. Brainerd’s senior Nelson took the Class 3A triple jump state title with a phenomenal leap of 47 feet, 7.5 inches. He’s already committed to join South Dakota State’s team. Keep an eye out for Forest Lake’s junior Fahey, who has been dominating the discus events, finishing first at every meet with a soaring personal best of 154-11.

Pole Vaulting into the Spotlight

Then there’s Perham’s junior pole vaulter, the reigning 2023 Class 2A state champion, showcasing a personal record of 12-4, which is no small feat! This impressive mark ranked as the highest in the state last year and fans can expect more thrilling performances from her.

In the distance events, Roseville’s senior continues to shine, now a commit to North Carolina. She has racked up multiple distance accolades, including state titles in Class 3A cross-country, alongside impressive finishes in the 1,600 and 3,200 meters at the track meet.

Chasing Greatness

All eyes will also be on Hopkins’ senior Risser, who recently set a personal best of 1:51.66 in the 800 meters at the New Balance outdoor national championships, ranking as the 14th best time in Minnesota history! Then there’s Math & Science Academy’s sophomore Lewis, who made waves as a freshman, winning titles in both long jump and high jump and clearing 5-5 in the high jump.

Lastly, keep track of St. Peter’s senior Banks, who showed off his talent with a state-best throw of 189-1 in discus in April before finishing second at the Class 2A state meet last June. It’s clear that this season will be filled with extraordinary performances and memorable moments as Minnesota’s track and field athletes gear up for an exhilarating spring ahead!

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