Wright City track coach Sue Wright says it's difficult to predict which how far the most prominent parts of the team will make it this postseason. Wright says the Wildcats are posting their best times in recent years, as they prepare to travel to the Class 3 District 4 meet on May 15 at Mexico. Much of the success has come from the relay teams. "All of our relays are very competitive with pretty much the same kids," said Wright. Although several underclassmen make up the relays, the leadership has come from the top. Senior Samantha Itinger is experiencing her first injury-free season and has faired well in several events. She has been competitive in the open 800 and has helped guide the 4x800 relay to victory. "Sam has done an awesome job constantly being a leader," said Wright. "This year she has been extremely driven." Wright says she was aware the team would possess talent but didn't know the extent of it. Freshman Agee Chenoweth has provided a spark in both the relays and sprinting events. Brianna Zumwalt has also found success in multiple events. While the Wildcats have competed well during most of their meets, Wright says the ultimate test comes against the Class 3 opponents at districts. "We're stronger than we have been and have better times in almost every event," said Wright. "But when we go up against the Class 3 schools, it gets a lot tougher to medal." Wright City made the jump to Class 3 last season and was unable to advance past the sectional round in any events. "They kind of know what to expect now," said Wright. "I can't say enough about their work ethic." Wright says preparing for meets has been a challenge since the Wildcats track is currently under construction. They have spent much of their practice time in the school parking lot or in the subdivision across the street. "We've gone to Warrenton to practice three times, but other than that, our jumpers have not been in the sandpit," said Wright. The boys team is enjoying its best scoring balance in recent history, according to coach Fred Ross. "I think since I've been here, except maybe our district championship team in 2004, that this is probably our best balance," said Ross. The Wildcats have enjoyed success in nearly every event, including the relays. Many of those same runners have excelled in the open races and sprints. Meanwhile, the top two throwers have both recently posted personal bests. "Wyatt (Morhmann) and Joey (Quesenberry) have been throwing very well for us," said Ross. "Also, Erik Hunter has been doing really good in the hurdles." Sophomore Zach Kowalik is one of the more consistent sources in points in the distance races as well. "I think we're a little deeper than we were last year," said Ross. "Hopefully we'll score some points across the board." The Wildcats have competed strongly in most of their meets this spring, but the postseason means matching up against Class 3 schools that are often unfamiliar. "You get the schools from up north that we don't see, and they always have good athletes," said Ross. "You just hope the kids perform well enough to medal and get to sectionals, and that's our goal."