Last Friday’s St. Dominic Invitational provided a chance for newcomers to shine. The fate of the Warrenton track team will rely on its ability to replace several pivotal competitors lost from last season. Both coaches found willing and worthy replacements during the season’s first major event. Coach Steve McDowell saw his team finish second after a balanced scoring effort that drew from both the track and field events. “We had a really good meet,” said McDowell. The Warriors were without a few premier athletes, with sprinter Jordon Washington and hurdler Nick Wallace each sidelined by injuries. But Warrenton’s depth showed, as it still experienced success in the sprint relays. “We’re picking points up here and there,” said McDowell. “That’s what we have to do is get a little contribution from everybody.” Senior Devin Ray paced the Warriors in the running events, finishing first in the 200-meter race, while freshman Drake Wagner placed second. Ray was also second in the 400 and helped the relays to strong showings. He teamed up with senior Cloud Wharton, freshman Justin McBroom and Wagner to place second in the 4x100 and third in the 4x200 race. “It’s comforting to know that we have depth, and those younger guys did a good job of contributing,” said McDowell. In the distane events, Tristan Cullom placed fourth in the 800-meter run, while Jacob Ruby finished fifth in the two-mile run. The Warriors also collected points from the field events, with senior Jeff Reese taking first and Logan Shay finished second in the shot put. McDowell also complimented Jacob Hickl’s performance in the pole vault and Brian Lanigan’s showing the triple jump. “That’s great, because that really boosts us,” said McDowell. “It was good to see them perform well in the meet.” The girls team also saw several newcomers emerge, with senior Hannah Romaker and freshman Mary Broker filling on a 4x800 relay team that has a tradition of success. They joined senior Melora Broker and sophomore Madeline Carlson for a second-place finish. “It’s exciting to see the young people get enthused about the program,” said Coach Mike Spoede. Romaker decided to join track during her senior season, after a successful cross country venture in the fall. She helped the Warriors capture breakthrough success on Friday, taking sixth in the 4x100 sprint relay. “We’re using her cross country endurance, and she’s fit in well with the 800,” said Spoede. She’s also fitting in with the sprint relays. That’s kind of unique to see someone excel in both sprint and distance.” Joining Romaker in the 400-meter relay were freshmen Lalita Andrews and MacKenzie Miller, along with Melora Broker. Carlson also experienced success in the open distance races, placing second in both the mile and two-mile run. “Madeline was involved with a lot of points,” said Spoede. “Our returning athletes providing a lot of points for us.” Junior Daphne also provided a boost, taking third place in the high jump. Perhaps the most consistent source of points will be from senior Melanie Raterman, who won both the discus and shot put throw. Consistent strong finishes will be expected of her. “So far her shoulder seems to not be an issue,” said Spoede, of an injury that has plagued Raterman for quite some time. “We’re working on technique and strength. She’s still throwing well, and we’ve got high expectations throughout the season.”

Warrenton sophomore Madeline Carlson finished among the top in multiple events, providing a wealth of team points for the Warriors.

Craig Vonder Haar Photo.