IDA GROVE - With state bids on the line, the St. Edmond boys track team stepped up to the challenge again at a Class 2A district meet Thursday night.
The Gaels secured their eighth straight district crown with 125.5 points, while qualfying at least nine events for Des Moines. Kingsley-Pierson/Woodbury Central (123.5) finished second.
Nate Kolacia was a double champion for SEHS in the 1600 (4:43.43) and the 3200 (10:19.18). Other Gael victories came from University of Iowa recruit Neil Flattery (800, 1:58.44) and the medley relay (Aaron McElroy, Kolton Rottinghaus, David Flattery and Kolacia, 3:43.67).
Turning in runner-up showings as well for St. Edmond were Hank Lentsch (high jump, 6-4), Neil Flattery (400, 50.78), Seth Reel (1600, 4:43.50), the 4x400 (Rottinghaus, McElroy, Cory Angstrom and Neil Flattery, 3:31.20) and the 4x800 (Jacob Hamilton, David Flattery, Reel and Neil Flattery, 8:27.00).
"Kingsley-Pierson had a huge lead on us after the field events, and I didn't think we could catch them," said SEHS head coach Bill Kibby. "Nate and Neil both had outstanding nights for us. Winning an eighth straight title was unbelievable, especially against such great competition. I was really happy with our performance."
The Gaels also received some bad news last evening when hurdler Tristan Sitzmann fell during warmups and broke two bones in his lower arm.
State action is set for next Thursday-Saturday at Drake Stadium.