Connor Mora running with the pack during the 800m run”

Last Saturday, Red Hawk junior distance runner Connor Mora finished where no other Cedar Springs track and field athlete has before. Connor was state champion in two events at the MHSAA Division 2 State Finals at Houseman Field.

Going into the meet, he was seeded as the number one runner in the 1600m and 800m runs. Mora carried out his pre-race strategy exactly as planned in the 1600m run, beating his nearest competitor from Chelsea by 1.5 seconds. His official time of 4:13.97 was the fastest from all divisions in the state Saturday.

Connor Mora breaking from the competition in the 1600m run.

After recovering and refocusing for the 800m run, he once again carried out his plan and passed a small group of runners on the backstretch of the last lap, with 250m to go, and didn’t look back. His official time was 1:56.41. Although exhausted, Connor was able to gather his thoughts for some media interviews.

“Connor showed the entire state why he is considered to be the best distance runner in the state,” remarked Coach Jeff Myers. “His hard work began after last season’s disappointing finishes right here at the state finals. He did a lot of maturing over the course of the season, became focused on his race strategies and will out work anyone. We are very excited to find out what opportunities lie ahead for him at the next level.”

Connor with All-State distance sisters Kenzie (left) and Katie Weiler.

Also competing for the Hawks last Saturday was Derek Ash, 12th in the discus at 149’ 5”; the 3200m relay team placed 17th with a time of 8:16; and Aaron Brooks in the 3200m run with a time of 9:58.

Congratulations to all Red Hawks for their season’s accomplishments.