pnorth051408.track

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Track teams will draw on depth

Last update: May 13, 2008 - 5:24 PM

The great Sade Pollard single-handedly delivered St. Paul Harding's sixth-place finish at the Class 2A state track and field meet last season, a testament to her sprinting skills in three events.

But it will take much more than the efforts of one elite athlete to capture a coaches association True Team state track and field championship. Governed by an "every athlete counts" philosophy, the True Team state meet rewards determination and depth.

The championships take place Friday and Saturday at Stillwater High School. Class 3A competition begins at 4 p.m. Friday. Class 1A competition begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, followed by the Class 2A competition at 3 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for students and senior citizens. Every athlete contributes to the team score, and here are four who will be important to their teams' chances.

BOYS

Paul Blaske, Mounds View

Senior co-captain helped the defending True Team state champion Mustangs win the Class 3A, Section 6 crown by scoring points in four events. "He's a lunch-pail guy who earned his way," coach Ross Fleming said. "He is indispensable."

Jim Linn, Anoka Ø

Played an integral part in leading the Tornadoes past rival Andover in the Class 3A, Section 4 meet. The senior ran legs of two second-place relay teams (4x400- and 4x800-meter) while placing seventh in the 800.

GIRLS

Shannon Sorensen, Mounds View

Her multi-event prowess helped the Mustangs win the Class 3A, Section 6 title and allows them an opportunity to repeat as True Team state champions. She set a personal-best mark in the triple jump at the section meet while adding points in the long jump and the 4x100 and 4x200 relays. "Some girls feel overwhelmed by four events," coach Aaron Redman said. "She is a great athlete who is willing to do what is needed."

Kelly Peterson, Anoka Ø

Already scheduled to compete in three events at the Class 3A, Section 4 meet, Peterson was a last-minute addition to the 4x800 relay. She held her own, helping the Tornadoes place fourth in the race and first in the section meet.

DAVID LA VAQUE

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