The track and field state qualifiers from Cambridge Lakes Learning Center in Pingree Grove received a rousing send-off before they left for the 2017 Illinois Elementary School Association Tournament in East Peoria.
The students were set to compete in the IESA Class A State Track and Field Meet on Friday and Saturday.
CLLC Athletic Director Sean Mullen, along with track and field coaches Katie DeGross, Lauren Prescott, Amanda Hinthorne and Camilla Barrientos, were among the students, teachers and staff who cheered the athletes before they left for East Peoria.
“We are proud of the hard work and dedication shown by these students,” said DeGross.
“Our state qualifiers for the 8th grade girls’ 4×200 meter relay are Jacey Lambert, Julie Barrientos, Hayley O’Reilly, Rachel Rebolledo and Zoe Williams. Rachel took first place,” said Mullen. “Jacey took first place in both the 8th grade girls’ 100 meter hurdles and 200 meter dash. Our state qualifiers for the 8th grade boys’ 4×400 meter relay are Darius Nguepi, Sam Colluci, Isai Morales, Nico Pena and Collin Sylvain. Nico took first place.”
Mullen added, “Our 8th grade girls took third place overall in their division and will bring back a nice plaque to display.”
Denise Moran is a freelance reporter for the Courier-News.