The Lopez track and field team started off its season on March 21 with not one, but two victories; both boys’ and girls’ teams took first place in a field of eight schools at the meet, in which eight schools were represented. (See sidebar for overall and individual scores).

The Lopez team did well again at their next meet at La Conner on Tuesday, March 24. Out of a pool of eight schools, the Lopez girls’ team placed second overall with a score of 93 to La Conner, who won the meet overall with 103 points. The Lopez boys’ team placed third overall with a score of 89 points, finishing behind La Conner and Concrete. These scores are made all the more impressive when considering the fact that the Lopez school is one of three 1B teams making a showing at these events. Currently the Lopez track and field team is in the lead for their league because of outstanding individual scorers.

The schools, represented by Concrete, La Conner, Grace Academy, Mt. Vernon Christian, Friday Harbor, Lummi, and North Sound Christian, are all bigger schools than Lopez with the exception of Grace Academy and North Sound Christian.

“Our performers on Tuesday really stood out like stars,” said Coach Steve Wilbur. “Lyra Dalton, Laura Strom and Jamie Cummins put in three outstanding performances. Dalton won the triple jump and the long jump, and took first place as well in the 1600 meters as well as taking second place in the high jump. These three athletes showed amazing versatility on the track and field circuit.”

Jamie Cummins, a freshman for Lopez high school, placed first in the 100 meter hurdles while Laura Strom placed first in the high jump with a clearance of 5′ 1″.

“She is currently the reigning state champion with this height clearance,” commented Coach Wilbur. “The base clearance of the bar is 3′ 6″…all girls must clear that to compete, but 5′ is unusual for most girls to clear. She is very talented.”

Strom and Dalton will more than likely finish in the top three at state competitions at track and field.

“The outstanding performances by the boys featured Sebastian Lasbo, who won the 800 again, with a time of 2 minutes, 10.6 seconds, and Leland Nobson,” said Coach Wilbur. “Nobson won the shot put with a throw of 36′, 10″. Mike Strom is the throwing coach for javelin, shot put, discus and he’s doing a great job with the team.”

The Lopez track and field team competes again on Friday, April 4 at Friday Harbor at 3:30 pm.