The start of high school events at the Drake Relays in Des Moines took place on Thursday and Boone senior Albert Meier stole the show. Meier eclipsed the nine minute mark for the 3,200 meter run and won in meet record time of 8:58.46. Josh Evans of Linn-Mar (Marion) was second in 9:01.55, and 2013 champion Thomas Pollard of Gilbert was third in 9:04.85. All three times are faster than the previous Drake Relays record.

Perry junior Will Whiton tied for eleventh place in the boys’ long jump with a best leap of 20′ 7-1/4″. Perry senior Ben Daniels also qualified in the long jump, but he did not compete. Daniels has been hampered by a hamstring injury.

The girls’ high jump saw Earlham senior Addie Herman tie for seventh place at 5′ 2″. Adair-Casey senior Danni McCorkel also competed in the high jump, but McCorkel did not clear opening height.

Several more Raccoon Valley Radio listening area athletes will be in action today and tomorrow at Drake Stadium in Des Moines.