The high school track and field team returned from Spokane on Sunday after an eventful weekend at the state championships at Eastern Washington University. Of the six treks I've taken to state, this was one of my most enjoyable, as we had a little bit of everything; both good and bad.

Sean Rice (JR) was once again the highlight, capping a perfect season in the triple jump. Sean won all 9 competitions he entered, winning the state title with a personal best jump of 45'5". He is the first 1A level jumper since 1999 to jump over 45' at the state championships! Sean also medalled in the long jump, placing 7th. One of his jumps appeared to be measured from a mark that wasn't his, costing him 8" or so, but Sean didn't let that bother him at all. He took his two medals and left with a smile.
Nick Piksa (SR) had a tough day in the shot put, placing 14th. A disappointing end to a great season for Nick.
Adam Nelson (SR) was in the same boat, placing 15th in the high jump with his lowest clearance of the season. It didn't help that he was jumping in a windstorm that lifted tents onto the track and caused the high jump officials to hold the bar in place while the athletes approached. Still don't know why they didn't postpone it for a few minutes, but Adam made no excuses. Everybody jumped in the same stuff.
Jenn Peterson (JR) was disappointed in her 10th place finish in the 200m, but seeing as how she had knee surgery less than three months ago, I was pretty impressed she was even there.

Overall it was a great trip for us. The weather was awful (in addition to the windstorm, we were pelted by bb-sized ice pellets for about 90 seconds right before the 200m), but the company was great. These 4 kids were great to have around. It's a wonderful thing to take teenagers 300 miles from home and not worry even a little bit about how they'll behave. We also got to spend a good deal of time with LCA alum and current Gonzaga runner David Hannon. It's great to see kids that have come through LCA's program doing so well.