State 4A/3A/2A track: Union’s Merriweather caps off career with title on the track

“I’m proud of myself for PR-ing (in the 800),” Maas said, “because I didn’t think I’d be able to since I just ran (Friday). “Some of the girls in the race really pushed me and I like having that pressure because it pushes me farther than my own self could.”

Two days after placing third in the 2A boys 1,600 meters, Columbia River’s Daniel Barna did one better Saturday by placing second in the 3,200 (9:17.43). He was in pain after the race, but in a good way, he said. It led to a personal-best time by 19 seconds. 

“That’s harder than the mile, I’d say,” Barna said of the eight-lap 3,200. “The mile is all in the legs, and this is all up here (in the chest) and it’s exhausting. … I knew I could break 9:20, and I did. It was hard.”

Hockinson’s Cody Wheeler, in his second year as a track and field athlete, placed second in the 2A boys javelin (181-3). He was ranked as high as 11th nationally after a throw last week of 201-4 at districts. He said his senior season is still a success, despite throwing 20 feet below his personal-best Saturday.

“I definitely do,” Wheeler said. “Last year was my first year of track, and I threw 177 (feet), so almost 30 feet onto my PR. It’s a blessing and I’m glad. I worked pretty hard for it. My mom helped me along the way, she’s my coach so I’m happy to be where I am today.”