(4-4-16) – This weekend, the Valdez High School Track team took a running start at the Big C Relays in the Dome at Anchorage.  Valdez took a partial team of 22 boys and girls to compete against the best Alaska had to offer in large and small schools.  In total 932 hopeful track stars competed in what is the largest meet in the state. “I feel this early meet is great for not only our younger athletes, but our seasoned vets as well.” says coach Langseth.  “It is really fun to watch the younger kids who have never experienced this level of competition and experience, their smiles says a lot!”

During an early season event like this, experience is the goal.  Getting kids on a track is really important…to get some spilt times as well as official times serves a great purpose in training an improving.  Kids can now set goals and work towards them.  Valdez put together a host of relay teams in the 4X100, 4X400, 4X800 as well as two medley relays.  For us, early season relays are an opportunity to look at spilt times.  “We saw some very good early season splits. Zoe Langseth posted a 26.6 and Katy Merioles a 30.0 200M Spilt. In the 400’s Jade Watts 1:08, and Kassi H 1:07 and Zoe L. 60 sec.  On the Boys side, Cody Greene ran an impressive 2:16 800M along with Aiden Hinkle posting a 2:19 800M.  Additionally Cody Greene ran a 56 second 400M.  Alexis Woods also ran a great early season 400 Split and a personal best in the 100M. ”

In terms of place finishers, Zoe Langseth was competitive in Alaska Outfitters King of the Hill 300M Hurdles placing 2nd. Jonah Coats also earned a respectable finish in the Boys High jump placing 5th.

Valdez hopes to next compete at home April 8th while hosting a mini meet with Glennallen.  Field events begin at 3:30 and running events at 4:00.  Our hope is to also run a community fun run 1600M open event.  The Community open will take place around 5:00pm.