Sandpoint track readies for state

SANDPOINT — It's quality, not quantity that defines the Sandpoint track team as they head down to Boise this weekend for the 4A state track meet.

While coach Dave DeMers has taken down more athletes in past years, the ones he's taking this year all figure to make some noise while they're down there.

On the boys' side, Sheldon Cramer and Charlie Hirning are both legitimate contenders to win state titles in the discus and high jump respectively.

"I think Charlie can win it," said DeMers of the school record holding high jumper, who cleared 6-8 earlier this season. "Nobody in the state has jumped with him this year."

Cramer should place well in the shot put, and is only three feet off the top seed's throw in the discus.

Freshman Joshua Kopsa, in the 200 meters, is the only other boy heading down.

Courtney Adams will be right in the mix in the 200 meters, as well as both the 4X200 and Medley Relays. The long-striding senior has gotten stronger as the season has progressed.

"She's got to just let it go and run," DeMers said. "I think she has it in her to be the state champ."

Brooke DeMers will be right near the top of both the high jump and long jump, and DeMers thinks her season bests are still ahead of her.

Katie Adams will run both the 300 and 100 hurdles and Megan Bartlett will double up in the 3,200 and 1,600.

Deserae Hutchings (200 meters and both relays), Christina Miller (800 meters), Chanel Garcia (triple jump) Candace Fournier (both relays) and Kendra Clyde (4X200) round out the girls' team.

Field events and distance runs are Friday, with all remaining events Saturday at Ed Jacoby Stadium at Boise State University.