Boys track gearing up for Regionals
May 24, 2023
Regionals is the meet before State finals where stakes are high to advance and the competition is elite. Next Thursday, May 5
Establishing himself as a leader in late-season meets, senior Jordan Bonser has experienced the competition at the Regional level multiple times.
“Regionals is different from any other meet because the slower competition has already been eliminated. It is 20+ people in every heat with very similar goals and talent,” Bonser said.
Mental preparation is more important than physical training late in the season.
“Every athlete in the meet has followed a similar training plan and is in good shape. Some athletes are ready to be on summer break and already have plans to be eliminated. It is important to plan past the meet and focus on moving on,” Bonser said.
Going into Regionals well prepared could be the difference between elimination and State, so it is important each athlete has a way to get ready.
“I have been training hard since February for the high jump. The most important part of preparing is staying healthy. I need to stay in great jumping shape, but with proper recovery and fresh legs, I could make State,” senior CJ Price said.
Team chemistry is huge for relay teams. The Woodmen have the potential to send all three teams to Regionals as all of them have had outstanding seasons. The 4×100 has broken the school record multiple times, and the 4×800 made indoor state.
“The 4×4 team has had the same four guys all season. We have become good friends on and off the track which has helped us work harder and run motivated for the team. I would be very happy if we got a season best at the regional meet,” Price said.
The distance 4×8 team is led by Junior Sam Grimes. He is the anchor and fastest runner. As the rest of the boys distance team has been plagued with injury, he has continued to improve.
“Regionals is very important because it is a final test and tune up before State. Last year, the competition was the best I faced all season, so I expect nothing less this season,” Grimes said.
Strategy plays a huge part in meets where the talent is so even. Having a plan for the race and proper coaching are huge benefits.
“For my mile, I plan on going out fast to put myself in the best chance to advance to State as possible. I will stay in the top group and kick the last lap with everything I have, which I have practiced all season,” Grimes said.
