Cyclones shine at Drake Relays despite rainy weather

It was a cold and rainy day at the Drake Relays in Des Moines, but that did not stop athletes from competing at the top of their game, including Harlan’s Kaia Bieker who took home sixth place in the women’s high school 800m event.

“I was just so excited to be here,” Bieker said. “I’ve really been working, my teammates have been encouraging me towards getting here in this open eight, so it’s been exciting.”

HCHS girls track and field head coach Jennifer Hamilton spoke on behalf of Bieker’s performance.

“We are so proud of her,” Hamilton said. “She continues to demonstrate incredible determination and drive while maintaining a spirit of humility and gratitude. We are grateful for her leadership and example on our team.”

Being a senior so close to graduation, Bieker plans to take her talents to college to continue running.

“I’m going to be running at Harding University in Arkansas, so I’m really excited to go to that Christian school for my faith and get better at running as well,” she said.

But it wasn’t just Bieker who stood out for the Cyclones. Junior Aidan Hall had quite the performance.

“Overall it was a mixed bag,” said HCHS Boys Track and Field Head Coach Sam Brummer. “The 100 went well as Aidan got a medal and was consistent with times.”

Brummer said Hall is still working to get back in shape from his injury.

“But out of the blocks he proved he is among the best in the state, once he can regain that closing speed we will see how it ranks among 3A,” he said. “He was the only 3A runner in the finals so we have high hopes.”

On Saturday, the boys 4x100 relay team competed.

“4x100 we looked good at the start. Lukas got out very well we had the handoff clean but just botched it in the act of running so we didnt get to see what the outcome would have been,” he said. “Hopefully kids learn from it that no matter how fast you are on the meet sheet you still have to go out and back it up on the track.”

 
 

 

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