Regardless of who they are competing against, Montezuma-Cortez High School track stars Rachel Demby and Justice Ramos often appear at the top of the standings.
At the Ron Keller Invitational in Durango on April 15, individual victories were only half the story for the Panthers’ however, as several individuals showed improvement.
Boys’ team continues to grow
Leading the way for the M-CHS boys’ team as he has throughout the season, Justice Ramos was again solid, finishing first in the 400-meter dash (52.19) and third in the 800 (2:03.30).
“(Ramos) had an exceptional race in the (800) and set a PR,” said boys’ coach Bob Archibeque. “He did very well.”
Also enjoying a solid day for the Panthers’ was Justice Ramos’ younger brother, Josh, who finished sixth in the 800 (2:12.24).
Other standout performers for the Panthers included Victor Perez, who finished second in the shot put (42 feet, 3 inches) and Briston Walker, who finished fourth in the triple jump (36 feet, 4 inches).
Panthers’ freshman Elijah Vaquera also enjoyed success, finishing fifth in the 200 (24.99) and sixth in the long jump (18 feet, 6 inches).
“(Vaquera) had a nice 200 race and a nice long jump,” said Archibeque. “Our young ones are getting better and I think when we put it all together, we’ll be solid.”
Girls’ team earns victories
Again pacing the M-CHS girls’ team was Rachel Demby, who, looking extremely impressive, won the 200 (27.38) and 400 (59.69).
Also registering an individual win for the Panthers was Tayla Topaha, who finished first in the discus (107 feet). Topaha also finished eleventh in the shot put (27 feet, 5 inches).
Other top performers for the Panthers included Weslie Kirks, who finished fourth in the triple jump (30 feet, ½ inches) and fifth in the 100 hurdles (18.04) and Dani Ownes, who finished fifth in the 200 (29.96) and ninth in the 400 (1:07.54).
Michele Coyote also enjoyed a solid day, finishing eighth in the 200 (30.25).
Next up for the Panthers’ track teams will be the Pine River Invitational, which will take place in Bayfield on April 19.
