GILBERT, IA — The Ballard men's track and field team put together a strong performance at the Gilbert Coed Invitational, finishing second overall with 108 points in a competitive field of eight teams. Host Gilbert took home the team title with 155 points, while South Hardin followed closely behind Ballard with 106.

Davidson, Vance Dominate Distance Events

Junior Max Davidson led the way in the distance races, claiming a decisive win in the 3200 meters with a time of 10:20.30 and placing third in the 800 meters (2:06.05). Freshman Austin Vance also impressed, finishing second in the 3200 meters (10:30.82) and fourth in the 1600 meters (4:56.25), earning critical team points in both races.

Hurdles Crew Leads the Way

Ballard's hurdles squad delivered big performances, highlighted by Stetson Kane winning the 110-meter hurdles in 15.68. He was followed closely by teammate Chase Ihle, who placed fifth in the same event. The duo teamed up with others to claim the 4x110 shuttle hurdle relay title, clocking in at 1:02.48, edging out Gilbert and Roland-Story in a tight race.

Sprinters and Relays Hold Strong

Sophomore Jude Jones earned fifth in the 200-meter dash (24.44), and Dillon Shoen took fourth in the 400 meters with a time of 56.93. The Bombers' 4x400 meter relay team placed second overall with a solid time of 3:47.80, narrowly missing out on the win to Gilbert.

Despite a disqualification in the 4x200 meter relay, the team bounced back in the distance medley, finishing as runner-up in 3:57.91.

Field Events Add Depth

In the field, Ballard secured a 2-3 finish in the high jump from freshmen Kanen DeYoung and Parker Miller, both clearing 5'10". In the long jump, Chase Ihle (18'7.75") and Bryce Miller (18'2") claimed third and fifth respectively.

Senior Jackson Wacha delivered a second-place finish in the shot put with a mark of 45'4", followed closely by sophomore Carter Sparks in fourth (42'11.75").

Up Next

The Bombers will head to the Nevada Invitational on Thursday - April 10 starting at 4:30 PM.