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Track and Field Team Gears Up for Competitive Season with Returning Champions, Confidence

Elmira High School senior Ashlyn Turbo, seen last season breaking a school record by clearing a height of 9’6″ in the pole vault, is expected to be one of the track and field team’s strongest competitors again this season. (Contributed photo)

With the spring season underway, Elmira High School’s track and field team is gearing up for a competitive couple of months.

“We have some very strong competitors in just about every event, but we seem to be especially strong and deep in the pole vault, and the distance races (800m, 1500m, 3000m) and the boys throwing events,” head coach Pat Wondra said.

Some of the team’s strongest athletes have returned from competing at state last year in the 4A level, including pole vaulter Ashlyn Turnbo’s second-place finish and relay state champions Isaiah Wilson and Tanner Hunt.

The team’s first official meet will be Wednesday in Phoenix, Oregon.

“I feel confident that our returning athletes are ready to compete, and our new athletes are ready to learn what a meet is all about, including the increase in competition level from practices,” Wondra said.

As the season progresses, Wondra said he is looking forward to seeing personal records broken.

“My favorite part of being a coach is the PRs,” he said. “It’s fantastic to see young athletes grow throughout the season and reach their peak for that season towards the end of it — that and the nice weather in May.”

With new talent and strong competitors, the track and field team is poised for a successful season.