It has been a chilly spring, but that hasn’t stopped the Galena/ East Dubuque/ River Ridge girls track team from success. They took first place at the NUIC conference meet at Forreston on Thursday, May 2.

“We totally dominated conference this year and I am so proud of my team”, said Lizzy Eaton ‘20. The Lady Blues have had success in the conference meet for the past few years. They have won the title seven times in the past eight years, with one year coming close.

The team knew it wouldn’t be easy, but they went into the meet confident and got the job done. The girls finished on top with 153 points. The second place team was far behind with only 124 points.  “Every point makes a difference,” said Morgan Wills ‘19. “It can come down to single point differences at the end.”

The first place finishers in five events were from the Galena/ East Dubuque/ River Ridge team. Also the girls placed in almost every event with an entry. “It was so cool to place in this meet as a freshman,” said Avery Engle ‘22. Engle placed fourth in the 800 meter run with a time of 2:43.686.

There is a lot of talent and hard work that is shown through the girls’ accomplishments. Through rain or shine, the girls always give their full effort. “Being a part of the team is so much fun,” said Kate Moran ‘21. “I am so glad I decided to join this year.”

The team is working hard and preparing for their sectional meet on Thursday, May 9 in Rochelle. With so many returning athletes, the team is sure they can qualify at least someone for State. “We just have to strive for PR’s,” said Sammi Digman. “That’s all we can do now.”

In order to qualify for state, an individual or team must place first or second in the event or beat a set of times set by the IHSA officials. The State meet will take place at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston on May 17 and 18.

Congratulations on winning another conference title and good luck at sectionals!