Brave "Tracks" - Boys Track Dominates County Meet

BRAVE “TRACKS” 2025: Issue 1 Submitted by Coach Disbennett

Braves Dominate the County Meet in Gritty Conditions

Last night, Logan Elm had the honor of hosting the Pickaway County Track & Field Meet, and despite wind gusts of up to 20 mph and brisk temperatures in the 40s, our athletes showed what true toughness looks like. Competing for bragging rights in the proverbial backyard of Pickaway County, the Braves brought the heat on county rivals Westfall, Teays Valley, and Circleville — earning a decisive victory and a full year’s worth of bragging rights.

Heading into the meet, we knew conditions wouldn’t allow for personal bests. So instead, our strategy focused on grit, heart, and effort. When the weather turns, athletes have two choices — wish the meet was canceled or use it as an opportunity to prove their toughness. Our team chose the latter.

This meet was about more than just the scoreboard. Meets like this are stepping stones on the path to bigger goals — the Mid-State League Championships, Districts, Regionals, and ultimately, the State Meet. We use every opportunity to track progress, learn, and grow stronger — and last night was a great example of that process in action.

I’m incredibly proud of how our athletes competed. While we’re not yet where we want to be, we’re clearly on the right track. Our seniors and returning varsity letter winners have done a fantastic job leading by example, setting the tone at practices and meets alike. That kind of leadership is contagious — and it’s fueling our success.

Standout Performances

We had many standout performances worth celebrating:

• Owen Russell was phenomenal, sweeping all three distance events — a display of endurance and mental toughness.

• Michael Bock claimed victory in the 200m and continues to be a dominant force in the sprints.

• Justin Marcum took first in the Long Jump, while Graham Williams secured a win in the Discus — both delivering consistent, high-level performances week after week.

Equally exciting, though, are the rising stars and emerging contributors across our roster:

• Senior Parker Disbennett finished second to Owen in all three distance events, showcasing true grit and determination.

• Ethan Murdoch threw a personal best in the Shot Put — a powerful display that will only improve as his technique sharpens.

• Freshman Connor Kint is already making a big impact in the sprints and field events.

• Junior Leon Williams has turned heads this season, proving that off-season commitment pays off — he’s now among our top sprinters.

Others leading by example and putting in work that’s translating on the track include Dane Liggins, Andrew Pryor, Mark Wilson, Owen Groff, and Tyler Bowlby — each showing growth, leadership, and potential.

One of the most inspiring moments of the evening came from junior Marcus Harber. Running anchor for the 4x400 "B" team, Marcus came from behind to pass Westfall’s “B” team anchor. It was the best 400 of his career — not just in time, but in heart. His effort, determination, and refusal to quit embody exactly what we hope to see in every athlete. He may not have been the fastest on the track, but in that moment, no one gave more.

Looking Ahead

At the start of the season, each athlete wrote down their personal goals, and we also set team goals together. We revisit those regularly to stay focused and motivated. Right now, we’re on pace to reach those goals — if we continue to bring the same level of effort, discipline, and drive that we’ve seen so far.

It’s an honor to coach this group. Watching these athletes grow, push themselves, and support each other is what makes this journey so rewarding. I’m excited to see how far they’ll go this season — and I know the best is yet to come.

Thank you for your continued support of Logan Elm Track & Field. Go Braves!