Spencer moves to state track meet

Thomas Spencer was the sole individual from the St. Regis track team to represent the Tigers at the divisional track meet this past weekend at the Missoula County Stadium. And he will also be a representative of the Tigers at the state track this weekend.

Spencer qualified in the high jump, finally being able to clear 5-10. Spencer had been clearing 5-10 in practice, but had yet to do it a track meet. Last week, Coach Maury Johnston said that Spencer had the potential in the event, but some other circumstances had interfered with that potential at prior meets.

"It seems the same thing happens at every time. He clears 5-6 and then he gets called and has to go run the two mile. After running the two mile, he jumps again and barely misses 5-10," Johnston said.

The nice about divisionals is that didn't happen this weekend. Without the distractions of having to run the two mile and then jump again, Spencer cleared the 5-10 mark, stamping a ticket to state.

And while Thomas also got sixth in the two mile, they only take the top five to state. However, Johnston said that he and Thomas are very pleased with his success in the high jump.

"We were very pleased with his performance as he finally made 5' 10" in a meet. We made some changes with his approach and speed to the bar and it seemed to help," said Johnston.

Johnson said that Thomas is excited because the height of 5-10 would have tied for first in three other divisional meets around the state. The only jumpers who jumped higher six feet were the two that beat Thomas in St. Regis' Western Divisional meet. Johnston believes that Thomas has a great opportunity to medal at state.

"He is a great form jumper and just needs to put it all together at the right time. Beyond that, I am thrilled he made it to State to gain that experience to bring it back to St. Regis and share with our younger kids," Johnston said.

Thomas will be in Great Falls for state track.