All three members of the Rye High School track team who attended the state meet placed in the top eight in each of four events at Jefco Stadium in Lakewood.
Isaiah Guzman finished the highest of the Thunderbolts with a 4th place finish in the triple jump. Guzman leapt for 43’ in the event. Tate Heineman of Platte Canyon High School won the event with a leap of 45’ 4.25”. Guzman placed 6th in the long jump with a jump of 21’ 1.5”.
Cristian Duarte of Yuma won the event with a jump of 21’ 10.75”.
Kendall Himmelberg also placed 6th in the triple jump.
Himmelberg soared 32’ 8.25” in her best effort. Eboselulu Omofoma of Dayspring Christian won the event with a 35’ 11.75” effort.
Hailey George placed 8th in the 100-meter hurdles with a time in the finals of 17.38 seconds. Her time in the qualifying heat was slightly better at 17.03 seconds.
Omofoma also won the 100meter hurdles with a time of 14.24.
“ The kids did great,” shared Girls Head Coach Catherine Gallegos. “All three made the medal stand in each of the events in which they participated.”
Gallegos also mentioned the seniors who have been such an integral part of the team and will be missed next year: Himmelberg and George are both seniors. Derick Bak, Rylan Baker, Sofia Crosson, Mason Ford, Ava Mahanke, Jackie Newitt and Ming Tam will be missed for their leadership and abilities.
“Each one of the seniors brought something special to the team. But we are very much looking forward to our next season. We have some very strong athletes in this year's junior class that will be great leaders next year. As well as some very talented underclassmen. We have also heard some great things about the incoming freshmen. There is a lot of potential there for another great season next year,” emoted Gallegos.