With the rise of competitive track and field programs across the area, Midwestern Missouri schools are being represented WELL on Missouri’s biggest stage — the State Competition.

State Track and Field is taking place this weekend, and many local standouts are already racking up hardware and podium finishes. Our schools are making one simple statement: “The future is bright.”

And the crazy part? We are not even halfway through the two-day state meet yet — day one is still in progress! And already, we have medals being captured for our local schools.

At the time of publishing, these are only the early results from the state meet, with many more local athletes still set to compete before the weekend comes to a close. If early performances are any indication, Midwestern Missouri schools may not be done bringing home hardware just yet.

Leading the way early was Drexel’s Miles Wheeler, who soared to a Class 1 State Runner-Up finish in Pole Vault, continuing an impressive season for the Bobcats and giving Drexel another reason to celebrate.

In Class 2, Adrian freshman Chaz Davis showed absolutely no fear competing against upperclassmen, capturing State Runner-Up honors in Pole Vault. For a freshman to step onto the state stage and immediately finish second says plenty about the future of Adrian track and field.

Sherwood junior AB Chaikin also earned a podium finish, taking 3rd place in Class 2 Pole Vault in a strong showing against top-tier state competition.

The Butler Bears also made major noise, with a pair of juniors stepping onto the podium. Junior Kylee Dubray earned Class 2 State Runner-Up honors in Shot Put, while fellow junior Tandee Hiser brought home a State Runner-Up finish in Class 2 Pole Vault.

And while the medals are exciting, what may be even more impressive is the age of many of the athletes already making noise. A freshman is already bringing home state hardware. Multiple juniors are stepping onto the podium and challenging seasoned seniors on Missouri’s biggest stage. With a slew of underclassmen already proving they belong among the state’s best, it is safe to say the future of local track and field is in good hands.

And with plenty of events still left to compete, area schools may not be done adding to the medal count just yet.

We hope to bring you even more podium finishes and memorable performances in the next edition of the Mid-America Review.

Photos from AC Athletic Boosters, Erin Dubray, Butler Track & XC FB

This article is sponsored by C&S Graphics in collaboration with The MidAmerica News Review