The blue oval, otherwise known as the Drake Relays, is one of the toughest meets to compete in at the high school and collegiate level, but the Wahlert girls’ track team never disappoints.

The ladies’ track team qualified in seven events at Drake. Their best relay was the 4×100 team, which consisted of Laura Sherman, ‘16, Katy Fricano, ‘16, Bailey Hasken, ‘18, and Jackie Ganshirt, ‘17, placed first in prelims, third in finals, and broke the school 4×100 record.

“As soon as I saw Laura cross the finish line in first, I ran over to Katy with the biggest smile on my face. I couldn’t believe what had just happened! I was so proud and happy for the three other girls,” said Hasken, ‘18. Hasken also participated in the 100m dash, placing 27th.

The 4×200 team of Ganshirt, Laura Sherman, Anna Sherman and Fricano, placed fifth with a season best time.

The sprint medley team of Ganshirt, Alli Osterberger, Laura Sherman and Fricano also placed fifth in another season best time.

Ellie Osterberger, Laura Sherman, Ana Gall and Fricano competed in the 4×400 relay, placing 9th and just missing finals.

Jade Romagna, Kelly Boge, Ellie Osterberger and Kaylee Osterberger ran in the 4×800 relay placing seventh with a season best time.

Bailey Vance, ‘17, who qualified in the 100m hurdles, placed 32nd with a personal best time. “It was very nerve-wracking and exciting all at the same time. I knew there was hard competition, and I feel like that’s why I did so much better,” said Vance.

“I was happy we got to go back again and compete especially as a senior. Drake is a big deal and our team getting here makes a statement that we are a good team and we have the talent and tools to make it back here for state as well,” said Fricano.