The Philomath High School girls track and field team demonstrated exceptional skill at the Dean Nice Invitational, finishing third despite competing against larger schools. The Warriors' standout performance was led by senior Janice Hellesto, who achieved three individual victories and set a new school record in the 100-meter dash. Coach Joe Fulton emphasizes the importance of high-level competition for his athletes as they aim to secure another state championship.

Hellesto's achievements include a school-record time of 12.27 seconds in the 100-meter dash, her best time this season in the 200 meters at 25.47 seconds, and a first-place finish in the long jump. Other top performances came from Anneka Steen, Hanna McDaniel, Natalie Dunn, and Adele Beckstead. On the boys' side, Jamin Peters placed fourth in the discus, contributing to the overall effort.

Outstanding Performances Highlight Warrior Spirit

At the Dean Nice Invitational, the Philomath High School girls track and field team showcased their resilience and talent, securing third place among formidable competitors. Their success is attributed to the leadership and determination displayed by senior athlete Janice Hellesto, whose victories in multiple events underscored the team's strength. This meet provided valuable experience for the team, which aims to maintain its streak of winning state titles.

Hellesto's dominance was evident as she not only claimed the top spot in the 100-meter dash with a new school record but also excelled in the 200 meters and long jump. Her efforts were complemented by other team members such as Anneka Steen, who tied for second in the high jump, and Hanna McDaniel, placing fourth in the same event. These performances highlight the depth and versatility of the Philomath team. Coach Fulton’s strategy of exposing his athletes to higher levels of competition has clearly paid off, pushing them to achieve personal bests and surpass previous records.

Team Collaboration and Future Goals

Beyond individual accolades, the Philomath High School girls track and field team emphasized teamwork, achieving notable relay results. In the 4-by-100 and 4-by-400 relays, the Warriors secured fourth and fifth places respectively, showcasing their collaborative spirit. Additionally, contributions from Aspen Russell, Hailey Eckhold, Reagan Nuño, Cassidy Smart, and Kya Bolton added crucial points to the team's total score.

The boys' team also contributed significantly, with Jamin Peters leading the charge in the discus. His fourth-place finish highlights the growing potential within the male contingent. As the team prepares for upcoming meets, including the Wally Ciochetti Invitational and the junior varsity district meet, they remain focused on continuous improvement. By embracing challenges and learning from each competition, the Philomath athletes aim to build momentum towards their ultimate goal—securing yet another state championship. Their dedication and hard work promise exciting performances in the future.