Three area athletes capitalize on opportunity to compete in Illinois state track and field finals

CHARLESTON, Ill. — Three area athletes enjoyed solid finishes at the Class 1A boys track and field state championships after qualifying for Saturday’s finals.

West Hancock senior Nolan Gooding wrapped up his high school career with his second state medal, finishing 10th in the triple jump. Gooding posted a jump of 13.05 meters (42 feet, 9.75 inches). Gooding finished seventh in the triple jump as a junior.

Altamont’s Ben Roedl won the triple jump state title with a leap of 13.98 meters (45-10.5).

Brown County junior Cooper Adcox finished 12th in the shot put as his throw of 15.73 meters (51 feet, 7.25 inches) from the preliminaries stood as his best attempt. In three throws Saturday, Adcox’s best attempt was 14.02 meters. He is the first Brown County athlete to ever medal in the shot put at the state championships.

Dwight’s Graham Meister won the shot put state title with a throw of 17.81 meters (58-5.25).

Pittsfield junior Bodine Marable finished ninth in the 400-meter dash in 50.69 seconds. He is the second Saukee to medal in the 400 at the state meet, joining Dan Christensen, who finished fifth in the 400 in 1982.

North Shore Country Day’s Brian E. Smith II won the 400 state title in 48.47 seconds.