Coal Country Champion

Hanna-Elk Mountain-Medicine Bow (HEM) High School has bragging rights in two events won by Shane McGraw. He took first in both the 400-meter dash with a time of 51.18 and the 800-meter dash at 2:01.73.

“We are honored to have our two event State Champion, Shane McGraw. He was just tremendous in his races this weekend,” said Coach Jackie Jones. “He led the way as far as earning points for our team as the boys finished fourth overall and brought home a coveted trophy from the meet.”

Shane McGraw also came in fourth in the 200-meter dash at 23.80 and fifth in the 100 meter dash, timed 11.98. His brother Conor McGraw came in third at the 100-meter dash with a time of 11.67 and fifth with 23.97.

Jarrett Neimark placed second in the triple jump with 41’03.50”.

Jones said, “Conor McGraw, Neimark also contributed significant points in their events with Neimark earning all state honors on the triple jump. Our 4x400 relay team Brandon Scott, Tylor Goodro, Kyle Solass and Alex Claice also placed, which means all seven boys on the HEM boys team scored to earn the state hardware.”

The boys’ team placed fourth overall in the meet.

The HEM Girls did well in relays. The 4x800 meter relay the team placed second with a time of 11:40.63 and third in the 4x400 at 4:36.57. The team consisted of Cheyenne Tomkins, Cloe Olson, Jessica Nelson and Taylee Widdison.

“On the girls side, our State rookies gained valuable experience and learned that the big stage of state is very competitive and tough,” said Jones. She was pleased with her girl’s team performance in Casper.

“Our girls’ 4x800 earned a State runner up title and those same girls (Tomkins, Nelsen, Widdison and Olson) also placed third in the 4x400 relay. Cheyenne Hunter earned a place on the medal stand as well with a sixth place finish in the discus.”

The HEM track team weathered a year of canceled meets while still being able have the entire team go to State, showing the tenacity of the students and coaches.

“I am so proud of what our athletes accomplished in Casper this past weekend,” said Jones. “Our three communities have much to be proud of as we celebrate the success of the HEM track family.”