CHS track makes strong individual showing in opener

Despite falling short in the March 12 season opener, the Clover High School boys’ and girls’ track teams had strong individual performances in a dual meet.

“We had several individuals who did an outstanding job in our first meet of the new season,” said head coach Jeremy Smith.

CHS participants who won events against York included the 4-by-800 relay team, Ben Clark at 1600 meters and 3200 meters; Tenchi Her at 400 meters and Brandon Demby at 800 meters.

Scoring points for the boys’ track team were Colton Ennis, Tyler Brittain, Chase Hill and James Westerguard.

Scoring points for the girls included the 4x800 relay team, Jesse Defalco at 1600, 3200 and 800 meters; and Vanna Sams in 400-meter hurdles.

Others scoring points were Jaxine Hendrickson, Valerie Francis, Savannah Tetrault, Hannah White, Alexiz Allen and Cassie Caldwell.

“It was pretty good finishing first in the two events,” Clark said. “I could have run a better time in the mile, but I’ll take it.”

Clark, who is in his fifth season, said his goal is to make it to the state and to compete well there. “A region title would be nice first,” he said.

Clark maintains that it’s all about mental toughness.

“Physically, it takes its toll,” he said. “Get some sleep, get the school work in, prepare for the next meet, it’s rough. Coach Green and coach Smith know how to manage it; they help us with it.”

Clover’s Rhiannon Plummer moved to the forefront in the girls’ 100-meter hurdles.

“I feel great about winning my event,” she said. “I am so excited. I have to push myself out there.”

Plummer understands the complexities of competing in the 100-meter hurdles.

“You have to remember there are a certain amount of steps to take to clear the hurdle,” she said. “Make sure you get the right leg through, a lot to think about running the hurdles.”

She added: “I take it one track meet at a time, but I do have a goal to beat my previous time. I want to get at least below 20 seconds.”

This story was originally published March 16, 2015 at 10:08 PM with the headline "CHS track makes strong individual showing in opener."