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Blanchet Shines at OSAA 3A Track & Field District Championships

The Blanchet Catholic Cavaliers turned in an impressive performance this past Thursday and Friday, May 21–22, as they hosted the OSAA 3A Track & Field District Championships in Salem. Competing on their home track, Blanchet athletes rose to the occasion with standout performances across the running, jumping, and throwing events, continuing the school’s proud tradition of excellence in track and field.

Both the Blanchet Boys and Girls teams won the 3A-3 PacWest Conference Championship titles. The boys scored 171.83 points, over 84 points more than second place.  And the girls scored 192.5 points, more than 53 points over second place.  In addition, Blanchet senior, James Barnett, was named Male Field Athlete of the Year for our district.  And Coach Dave Mucken was named PacWest boys coach of the year.

With district titles and state qualifying spots on the line, the atmosphere at Blanchet Catholic School was electric throughout the two-day meet. Cavaliers athletes delivered clutch performances in front of family, friends, classmates, and the home crowd, showcasing the depth and determination that have defined Blanchet track and field for years. Individual district titles were won in the 200m (Angel Vargas Guerrero), 300m (Deontae Washington), 4x100m Relay (Aiden Geibel, Joe Barra, Deontae Washington, Angel Vargas Guerrero), Shot Put (James Barnett), and Discus (James Barnett). For the girls' team, Pole Vault (Eilee Mucken) and Long Jump (Bella Vargas Guererro). 

The Cavaliers demonstrated strength in multiple events, with athletes stepping up in both individual competitions and relays. From explosive sprint finishes to gritty distance races and key field event performances, Blanchet consistently found ways to score points and remain among the top teams at the meet.

Hosting the district championships added another layer of excitement for the Cavaliers. Competing on familiar ground appeared to energize the athletes, and the Blanchet community's support created a championship atmosphere throughout the event.

Blanchet’s track and field program has built a legacy of success in Oregon’s smaller school classifications, including numerous league championships and individual state champions over the years. This year’s district meet performance reinforced the tradition and highlighted the program's continued growth. 

Now, the focus shifts to the OSAA State Championships, where Blanchet athletes will look to build on their district success and compete against the best in 3A competition statewide. The following athletes have qualified for the state championship meet:

• James Barnett - Shot Put and Discus
• Joe Barra - Pole Vault, 4x100 Relay, 4x400 Relay
• Tate Francisco - 4x100 Relay
• Aiden Geibel - 4x100 Relay
• Dustin Haaby - 4x400 Relay
• Koren Ickes-Amend - 4x400 Relay
• Carson Smith - 110m Hurdles, High Jump, Pole Vault
• Orry Stanley - 4x100 Relay
• Calvin Tingleaf - 4x400 Relay
• Angel Vargas Guerrero - 100, 200, 4x100 Relay, 4x400 Relay
• Deontae Washington - 110m Hurdles, 300m Hurdles, 4x100 Relay, 4x400 Relay
• Lindsey Arritola - 4x100 Relay
• Renatta Diaz Hermosillo - Discus, Shot Put
• Ella Gerig - 4x100 Relay
• Yaretzy Jacobo Hernandez - 4x100 Relay
• Abagail Miller - 4x100 Relay
• Eilee Mucken - Pole Vault
• Scarlett Prine - 4x100 Relay
• Bella Vargas Guerrero - 4x100 Relay, 100, Long Jump, Triple Jump

If the district meet was any indication, the Cavaliers are well-positioned to succeed on the state stage.  Congratulations and good luck to all of Blanchet’s Track and Field athletes.