Track team sets sights on title

SANDPOINT — A large number of girls, most competing in multiple events, has Sandpoint track coach Dave DeMers talking about a team trophy as the Idaho State Track and Field Championships begin today at Boise State University.

Desi Hutchings (200, 4X100, 4X400, sprint medley) and Brooke DeMers (high jump, 100 hurdles, 4X100, sprint medley) are both strong contenders for individual titles in the 200 and long jump, respectively. They're two of 11 girls, many of whom are doing 2-4 events each, that could compile the points necessary for a top-four finish and a state trophy.

"We're shooting to come home with a trophy," said Dave DeMers of his girls team. "We need quality points by getting the kids through prelims. Hopefully we get some pleasant surprises."

Desi Hutchings seed time of 26.19 in the 200 was the second best, a mere .03 off of the top seed time — their district time. Brooke DeMers personal best jump of 5-foot-3, turned in at districts, is one inch off the defending state champions seed height.

"Brooke knows she can get it, she's jumping well," said Dave DeMers of his daughter's chances of winning a state title."

Megan Bartlett has a chance to place in four events — the 3,200, 1,600, 4X400 and the sprint medley relay. DeMers believes the girls 4X400 team of Bartlett, Hutchings, Chanel Garcia and Nicole Van Dyk has a shot to place well.

Kat Vardell (3,200, 1,600), Katie Adams (100 and 300 hurdles, long jump), Christine Miller (800), Victoria Vardell (800), Brittany Groenhout (300 hurdles, 4X100, triple jump), Van Dyk (4X100, 4X400, sprint medley), Garcia (4X400, triple jump) and Christina Johnson (discus) round out the deep girls team.

Will Andrews will lead a group of nine Sandpoint boys heading to state, where he stands a good shot of placing in the discus. His personal best of 152 is surpassed by only two other seed distances, and DeMers says anything can happen at state.

"Will has a shot to be state champ in discus," said DeMers. "I really think he can do it."

Luke Peters (4X100), Kurt Stoll (4X100), Tyler Jinright (4X100, sprint medley), Trevor Johnson (4X100, sprint medley), Joshua Kopsa (200, sprint medley), David Householter (1,600, sprint medley), Kyle Gibson (300 hurdles) and Tyrell Nelson (triple jump) round out the boys team.

Some of the field events and distance races begin today, with the rest of the action continuing through Saturday at Boise State University.