Cameron Russell takes home a pair of medals for IC track at state

CHARLESTON – It was a great day for Cameron Russell at the 1A IHSA Boys Track and Field State Meet on Thursday on the big blue track of Eastern Illinois University.

The Indian Creek senior placed third in the triple jump (43 feet, 11 1/2 inches) and fourth in the high jump (6-5) to earn medals.

Russell competed in the high jump first and then went right to the triple jump after the conclusion of the high jump. He also competed with teammates Colton Oleson, Aidan Sawyer and Lucas Woodbury in the 4x200-meter relay and then had to run the 400 the next event. Oleson and Woodbury also competed in the 200-meter dash, but the Timberwolves didn’t medal in those events.

“The 4x200 and 400 back-to-back is tough. I did it at sectional, but it was hotter out here today,” Russell said. “This entire state meet experience has been so awesome. After not having a track season last year, I wasn’t sure if I was going to go out this year. But I’m sure glad I did, and all the work we put in paid off with two state medals, which is really cool. I just love the jumping events, and I really can’t pick between the two for a favorite.

“One of the best things about yesterday and today was the time we spent together as a team. We left on Wednesday, got to go swimming when we arrived, came over to see the track and then went out to eat dinner as a team and with our parents. It’s been such a great experience, especially being with everyone.”