Author's Note: There is no earthly way that I'll be able to complete previews for all regions. Most of it is in my head, but getting it into coherent English and proper syntax is another matter altogether. I'll complete what previews I can and issue this apology for not getting all regions the recognition they deserve. Regrettably, I am leaving out some deserving athletes.
When the dust settles at each of the throwing venues on May 17, it could well turn out the the best female thrower in the state came from 2A Region 3.
Having graduated from a small high school, I appreciate the fact that 2A athletes--and sometimes some spectacular 2A athletes--often perform with but a tiny fraction of the recognition accorded to athletes from larger schools. Such is the case with Sangre de Cristo's Brittany Brown. In fact, although I do not know Brittany Brown, a corner of my heart roots for her inasmuch as she will graduate from the same high school that I did (a long time ago). With best throws hovering around 135 in the discus and 41 in the shot put, Brown makes this a region to watch all by herself.
But, even apart from Brown, this region will send several individuals and teams to state who will make their marks on the 2A state track meet.
Del Norte is the powerhouse on the boys' side. As with so many 2A programs, the Tigers must choose carefully how they distribute their athletes across the events, but they should contend for a state title. Last weekend, the Tigers dominated the multi-league meet in Bayfield, outpointing the nearest competition (including several 3A schools) 184-126. Count on sprinter Brandon Fonk, 400-meter specialist Lance Martinez, and distance runner Edwin Cruz making most of the noise for Del Norte. Beau Warman should add points in the discus, and the 4 X 100 and 4 X 200 relays are clicking for the Tigers.
While it is doubtful that anyone in the region has the horses to rein in Del Norte, Center will be well-represented by Chris Villagomez in the 800 and by their 4 X 400 relay. Jumper Matt Chandler and thrower Michael Givens, absent from last weekend's meet, are the major contributors for Sangre de Cristo. Sargent will look to capitalize on the hurdle work of Josh Lowder (at left). Cripple Creek-Victor distance ace Shawn Dubbs could give Edwin Cruz a run for his money at 1600 and 3200 meters.
The girls' side of the region is only slightly closer in terms of team ranking. Like the Del Norte boys, the Sangre de Cristo girls won by a significant margin at last weekend's meet in Bayfield where many of the region's teams were competing. Jumper/sprinter Mato Marstrand is another significant weapon in the Thunderbird arsenal. Look for noteworthy contributions from Mary Stoeber, Jessica New, and Megan Beiriger as well.
Hoehne sprinters Haven Cappellucci and Arianna Andreatta plus Del Norte high jumper Cassi Lamb promise to keep things interesting on the girls' side of the competition.