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Phantoms show progress at Sedona meet

Justin Jarrell competes at the Red Rock Invitational. Photo/Jen Hogan

Justin Jarrell competes at the Red Rock Invitational. Photo/Jen Hogan

SEDONA, Ariz. - Despite illness and injury hampering some of the team, Grand Canyon (GC) Phantoms track team is set on qualifying for State Finals in May.

After the Red Rock Invitational on April 5, track coach Jen Hogan said she was proud of the progression her team has made as the season heats up.

"Both of my seniors are looking great and I am confident I will take them to states in various events," Hogan said. "(Jessica) van Inwagen's 1600m was a full minute down from last week at the Tiger Relays. She has been struggling with illness for about the past month and is finally healthy."

Hogan said co-captain Justin Jarrell had a tough, yet impressive, weekend. The long, triple and high jumper hopes to make some adjustments at practice and finish up the season strong.

Dakota Timeche, who is new to the team, ran his first race and clocked a 6:10 in the mile. Unfortunately, he dislocated his hip joint and will be sidelined for at least a week.

Sprinter Alex Thompson is expanding his abilities to the long jump, and is already showing promise despite physical setbacks.

"He is struggling with a chronic knee injury from soccer so we are working to keep him healthy," Hogan said. "Both the remainder of the season and next year are going to be exciting times."

Junior Jo Legaspi debuted in the 1600m at the Sedona meet and finished with 7:17. Hogan said it's a respectable time, but knows Legaspi is capable of bettering it.

"She's naturally talented in distance and we are building her skill set in that arena," Hogan said. "Her favorite race is the 800m, however, I'd like to see her focus more in the 1600m and 3200m. I am very excited to have another year to work with her."

Ray Montoya finished with a very respectable 25 in the shot put this past weekend. Hogan said Montoya is working hard in practice and is helping him hit a throw of 30 feet or higher this season.

The Phantoms competed in the Page Merchants Invite April 12 and are on to the Mogollon Invitational this Friday.


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