Congratulations to this week's choices for PTXC Performers of the Week: Erin Feeney of Scranton Prep, and Kellin Valentine of State College Area. Both had stellar performances at the PTFCA Indoor Track Carnival that vaulted them to the win in the voting.
Girls Performer of the Week: Erin Feeney (Scranton Prep)
(Photo by Bill Shearn)
Scranton Prep's Erin Feeney has had a fairly low-key indoor season. The senior, who was runner-up at states in AA in cross country, raced only at a pair of small Summit University meets before Saturday's PTFCA Carnival. But it seems like that training plan is paying off for Feeney, who is clicking at the right time. On Saturday she ran away from a very deep field in the 3000 meters to take the win in a big PR of 10:04.29. It happened to the #7 "Tastiest Race of the Week." That time is also a PA#2 , certainly making her one to watch out for at states in a little over a week. Wait to see what else she can do!
Boys Performer of the Week: Kellin Valentine (State College)
(Photo by Kathy Leister)
Valentine's Day was still a day away, but on Saturday at the PTFCA Carnival, it may as well be February 14. For State College's Kellin Valentine, being PA#1 in the long jump since mid-December hasn't been enough. He wants more, and on Saturday, Valentine soared to a new level. For the first time in his career (indoor or outdoor), Valentine jumped past 23 feet in the long jump for the big win. It also improved his own PA#1 with a 23-1.75. He hasn't got too comfortable in the top spot in the state, and with this upward progression, it leaves us wondering what else he can has in store. Performing well at the state meet has a lot to do with being at your best on the right day, but Valentine's consistency makes him the clear favorite for next week in his backyard at Penn State.