Very few track programs across Iowa will have more experience competing at Drake Stadium this week than the Panorama Panthers girls track squad. The Panthers are one of eight teams vying for a Class 2A state championship starting Thursday in Des Moines after winning the Van Meter State Qualifying meet last week. Several of Panorama’s track athletes are returning state qualifiers, and the Raccoon Valley Radio Network spoke with multiple Panther track athletes about how previous trips to the Blue Oval will impact this week’s meet. Senior Devyn Kemble is making her fourth straight appearance at state and recounts her first trip to Drake Stadium in the spring of 2015. “Going in my freshman year, I was obviously really nervous because it was a new experience,” Kemble said, “I think it did threw me (off) a little bit because, the atmosphere is so much different than (the Van Meter State Qualifying Meet). Having been there three times before, I think it will definitely help a lot. I’m excited.”
Junior Morgan Johnk is also familiar with Drake Stadium, competing at state her previous two high school seasons and qualified for the 2017 & 2018 Drake Relays as well. Johnk agrees with Kemble that having competed at the Blue Oval previously does help with your nerves. “I think it does help out a lot because the atmosphere is so much different than a normal track meet.” Johnk said, ” Johnk said, “There are so many more people there. Being there (before), it helps because you aren’t as nervous.”
This is the third straight sports season that Panorama’s girl’s athletes will compete for a state championship. The Panther cross country team fell 12 points shy of winning the Class 1A State Cross Country title last November. Panorama’s girl’s basketball team also qualified for the Class 2A state tournament in February, falling in the quarterfinal round by one point against the North Union Warriors. Catch interviews with members of this year’s Panorama Panther girls track team on this week’s Karl Chevrolet of Stuart Guthrie County PM Sports Page, tonight at 6 p.m. on True Country K 107.9.