CHS Boys Track & Field Win Region Championship & Are on the Prowl to Win States

Alisha Yocum

Catoctin High School’s (CHS) Boys Track and Field team showcased their exceptional talent and dedication at the recent Maryland Public Secondary Schools Athletic Association (MPSSAA) 1A West Region Championships, with several standout performances.

Deacon McIlvain made history by securing the all-time best shot-put throw for Catoctin, launching an impressive 51 feet, 2.75 inches to claim victory in the shot-put event. Gab Riling dominated the distance races, clinching victories in both the 1600-meter and 3200-meter runs.

In a competitive 800-meter race, Dennis Lease, Gab Riling, and RJ Etzler demonstrated their prowess by clinching the top three spots, with Lease taking first, Riling second, and Etzler fourth in a challenging regional field.

Furious Trammel showcased his versatility and skill by securing first place in the long jump, triple jump, and 400-meter dash, solidifying his status as the best in Catoctin history in these events. Additionally, Gavin Sheetz delivered a stellar performance in the 110-meter high hurdles, securing second place while breaking the 16-second barrier.

The team’s relay efforts were equally impressive, with the 4×400-meter relay team consisting of Trammel, Lease, Etzler, and Sheetz storming from behind to claim first place.

Coach David Lillard has been coaching the team for four years and couldn’t be happier with the results from the recent meet. Typically, CHS competes against much larger schools, so the group doesn’t necessarily see winning results during the regular season. Lillard says “ These guys rock because they keep on grinding and trusting that meet results are nothing compared to hitting personal bests and preparing for championships.”

Lillard knows it is a tough week ahead, especially for the seniors as they prepare for graduation and the team heads to the State Championships on May 22 & 23 as this paper goes to publication. Lillard says “Staying sharp is the key”. We wish them the best of luck as they continue to make the Catoctin Community proud.

Members of the Catoctin High School Track and Field Team recently won Regionals.

Pictured: (top, from left) Kendall Jones, Gab Riling, Bryce Bowers, Furious Trammel, Dennis Lease, CJ Ruby, Wayne Ferson; (bottom, from left) Wyatt Sullivan, Santi Canadas, and RJ Etzler.