By Jim Muir
The Benton Rangers boy’s track team started the 2013 season on a good note Tuesday winning the Du Quoin Triangular. The Runnin’ Rangers talled 58 points to edge Christopher-Zeigler-Royalton (53) and Du Quoin (51).
Benton coach Rod Shurtz said he was pleased with the first outing of the new season, particularly with a host of new and inexperienced runners.
“This was our first outdoor meet of the season and the kids responded really well,” Shurtz said. “Our roster includes 11 freshmen, 4 sophomores, 6 juniors, and 2 seniors. It was nice to have some decent weather and our guys did a pretty good job of competing. We have a young squad with lots to learn, but the enthusiasm and energy is something we can build on with the upcoming meets.”
Tyler Price was a triple winner for the Rangers winning the 3200 and 1600 relays while also claiming a victory in the Open 800. Benton’s Jesse VanHoorebeke won the 400 and was also a member of the winning 1600 Relay. Shurtz said another high point was the effort by Nate Clements in the 3200 as he garnered his first individual victory of his high school career. Matt Williams ran strong and had a good afternoon as he was a member of the winning 3200 and 1600 Relays.
Shurtz said he believes the mix of veterans and the large group of newcomers will blend together for an enjoyable spring.
“We were excited by how all of our young guys ran today,” Shurtz said. “The 800 relay team of Andrew Gates, George Styles, Kurtis Sanders, and Tylor Marler had some good hand-offs and ran a decent time. These same kids also had great efforts in their respective individual events. Clayce Fletcher, Jarrod Johns, Scott Rose, Aaron Jackson and Dailus Richardson had good performances as well. When we mix in some of our veterans like Spike Buntin, Alex Jerrells, and Gavin Suver, we believe our crew will be fun to watch.”
The Rangers will run next week (March 21) at West Frankfort.
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