There is no better way to celebrate a new track at Red Mountain High School than to hold your first annual Red Mountain Rampage Invite.
This past April, a total of 16 teams from around the state, including Corona Del Sol High School, in Tempe, and Marana High School, in Tucson, together with other Division 1 and Division 2 schools, invaded Red Mountain to compete in a variety of track and field events.
The invite ran on time and smoothly, with compliments all around for head coach Brett Krieg. “Without the help of all the other coaches, the administration and, of course, the Parent Booster Club, this invite wouldn’t have been as successful as it was,” said Coach Krieg.
“The atmosphere was exhilarating, with everyone using our new facility,” stated Taryn, a senior. Many of the athletes described the home crowd enthusiasm. It made running at home exciting. Taryn had a season best time in the 2-mile, and her 1-mile time was a great qualifier for state.
Coach Krieg motivates his team with a friendly, engaging, positive and encouraging attitude. They respond to him with a willingness to dig deeper. Many personal best times were set. As Taylor Brenden and Corienne Clarkson agreed, they love the team aspect of the 4 by 800 meter relay. It makes them want to try a bit harder.
A discus throw by Cameron Lewis was 166 feet, and Dylan Kerr handled the hurdles with ease. Jack Wickens, a freshman, not only participated in the triple jump, but he also helped at the meet, and worked other areas to keep the event running on time. Kenneth Webb, a senior, loves to help his teammates.
Watch for the Rampage to return next year with even more exciting times and records being set.
For more information about Red Mountain track and/or this invite for 2016, contact Coach Krieg at www.mpsaz.org/rmhs, or visit the Red Mountain Track page on the website at www.mpsaz.org/rmhs/athletics/programs/track.