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FF runners prepare for state [UPDATED]
Published 10:43am Thursday, June 7, 2012 Updated 10:47am Thursday, June 7, 2012A fourth title, a dual qualifier, a third chance, a first appearance and a group of comedic competitors.
These are the stories that surround the Fergus Falls Otter Track and Field state qualifiers as they enter Friday’s state meet at Hamline University.
Senior Haylie Zenner will be looking to end her career at Fergus Falls Kennedy Secondary School with a bang as she will be going for her fourth 800 meter title in five straight state meet appearances.
“My main goal for this year is to get a sub 2.10 and a PR at the meet,” said Zenner. “I couldn’t even fathom winning another state title.”
Sophomore Brianna Rasmussen has had a taste of the state experience as a member of last season’s 4×200 relay team, but this year she strikes it out on her own, participating in the triple and long jump events.
“I’m really excited to get out there and see what I can do,” Rasmusson said.
She sustained an injury at the section meet, but it did not phase her as she was able to break the school record in the triple jump to take second at the meet.
“It’s really nice to have two athletes at state,” Girls’ Coach Nikki Welde said. “They are both focused on what they have to do at the meet.”
Senior Zach Haus hopes that the third time will be a charm as he competes in the 800 meter run for the third straight year.
“I really want to make finals this year and a top three finish would be awesome,” Haus commented.
Haus is already broken new ground as he won the Section 8AA event after settling for runner-up the past two seasons.
Senior Dominic Jones will make his first state appearance in track, after winning the 200 meter run at the Section 8AA meet. The state atmosphere will not be a new experience for Jones as he has participated in several state swim meets for the Otters in his varsity career.
Haus and Jones will also join up with senior teammates Hayden Zenner and William Eerdmann to compete in the 4×400 relay team. Behind the jokes and good-hearted nature of the boys is a determined group that won sections and is poised to make a statement at the meet.
“Our goal is to always get as many athletes to state as possible,” Boys’ Coach Randy Hansen said. “We are very please to see Zach, Dominic and the 4×400 team make it this year.”
The group will look to leave their mark on the state tournament as it begins Friday at 9 a.m.
