The Ballard women's track team had a good day at Day #1 of the State Track Meet.  Ellie Twedt finished 12th in the 3000 meter run and Rachel Newell ran a personal best of 12.87 to qualify for the 100 meter dash finals on Saturday.

Comments From Head Coach Scott Barth:

"Ellie Twedt ran a gutsy race in very hot weather, finishing 12th overall in 11:08.  She ran a solid race, her 2nd best time of her career, but the weather held her back somewhat later in the race.  She's had a solid season that started with the primary focus on the 800, so a full season of XC in the fall and full focus on the 3000 next season, will bring her solidly below 11.  That could get her a spot on the podium.

Rachel Newell ran her 100 meter PR on a time of 12.87 to qualify for finals Saturday.  She is a dedicated and hardworking athlete and she is peaking at state your senior season.  That's pretty awesome.  She only started running the 100 meter open event 3 weeks ago when she was running consistent 12 second splits in her relays.

Both of these athletes are hardworking and focused athletes.  They always push to make themselves better and I couldn't be more proud seeing them on the blue oval.

We return to the track tomorrow with the distance medley team of Rachel Newell and Carley Wilson in the 200 keys, followed by twins Natalie Maher in the 400 and Caitlin Maher in the 800.  Josie Fleischmann will be available if needed.  This is a young really featuring one senior (Newell) and 3 sophomores in the final 3 legs.  We are looking to cut a some time and aim for a top 10 finish-possibly reaching the podium with the right performances.  We have that potential.  Rachel Newell and Caitlin Maher will return to action on Saturday in the 100 and 1500 meter finals."

The Bombers are back in action on Friday - May 17 when they travel to Des Moines for the State Meet.