Cyclones shine at Track and Field State Championships

The HCHS boys and girls varsity track and field teams shined brightly in front of 15,000 screaming fans at the track and field state championships in Des Moines over the course of three days.

Senior Kaia Bieker participated in multiple events and even took home a medal for her efforts in the 800m event.

“It means so much,” Bieker said. “Every time we come to these competitions, there’s this song, it’s called There Ain’t No Grave and there ain’t no grave that can hold Jesus’ body down, so I remember that there’s no obstacle in these races that's going to hold me down and that’s really what helped me to catch the time I’ve been looking for all season today.”

Bieker reflected on what she’ll miss most about running track for Harlan Community High School.

“Just the feeling of God’s power,” she said. “Able to do anything with him and then also just the team and the relationships. That’s the biggest thing for me in track. Everyone is so close. We trust each other.”

HCHS Head Track and Field Coach Jenny Hamilton reflected on Kaia’s contributions and her bringing home a medal.

“Totally well deserved,” Hamilton said. “She’s just done every little thing right and no one more deserving, so it’s pretty cool to see her whole team around her genuinely happy for her and everyone is so proud of her.”

Junior Wil Neuharth finished in fourth place in class 3A in the boys 100m dash with a time of 10.87 seconds.

“It’s a blessing I can make it here,” Neuharth said. “Had to come out and compete. Would’ve liked to see a better time, maybe a little better placing, but it is what it is. I’m just glad I can make it here.”

Neuharth took in the moment of running in the State Championships and gave credit to his head coach Sam Brummer.

“This is what Iowa track is all about,” he said. “Brummer, he’s big with mentality stuff. Had my head cleared before the race and this week we worked on blocks, simple things, form things, stretching, getting my mind right.”

 
 

 

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