Injured Freshman Leaps to State Triple Jump Crown

Stewartville freshman Avery Nelson achieved a remarkable victory at the state Class 2A track and field meet, clinching the triple jump championship. This triumph came despite a significant hamstring injury sustained just a week prior, which had jeopardized her participation. Nelson's winning jump measured 39 feet, 1 inch, equaling her personal best. She competed at an estimated 60-70 percent of her usual capacity, driven by a strong will not to lose.

Nelson's journey to the championship involved overcoming the physical setback and building her jumping ability throughout the season. She focused on improving her jumping phases and dedicated herself to rigorous weightlifting. This state title has provided her with the motivation to aim for even greater heights, with a goal of reaching 40 feet in the triple jump and competing in the 200 meters at state next year.

Other Section 1 athletes also saw success. Winona's 4x800 relay team secured second place with a time of 9:09.83. Calla Pike from Winona finished third in the 800 meters, and Kaia Vandal placed sixth in the shot put. Byron's Lily Moon and Red Wing's Ann Stockton each earned eighth-place finishes in the pole vault and 100 hurdles, respectively.