Graham qualifies in the 800 meter run

Throughout the season one of the strengths for the Triton track and field team has been its effort in the girls’ distance runs. Whether it is the 800, 1600 or 3200-meter runs, the combination of Nell Graham and Courtney West have dominated seemingly breaking school records every time they hit the track.

During the Section 1A meet in Dodge Center last weekend, both girls put on great performances in their event, but the competition to earn a spot at the MSHSL meet is fierce. Despite the difficulties, Graham was able to break through and earn a spot in the 800-meter run at this weekend’s state meet at Hamline University.

“I don’t know if folks know how difficult our section meet is,” Triton track and field coach Bruce Huber wondered. “There are great track athletes all over the state, but we have a plethora of potential state champions that come out of this section every year. Anything can happen at the state meet, which is what makes it so exciting.”

Graham ran a personal best; season best and school record time in the 800 meter run at 2:21.68. She finished second to Wabasha-Kellogg’s Ellie Sholing, who posted a time of 218.76.

While the race was a solid performance for Graham, there was a special moment at the