New best propels Steinke to a better finish at State

Sophomore Beau Steinke was at the State competition in Wisconsin Rapids, Nov. 2, running for Cadott, setting a new personal best time, ending in 16th place. Photo by Nathaniel Underwood

By Ginna Young

In just his sophomore year, Cadott sophomore Beau Steinke not only punched his way to State cross country competition in Wisconsin Rapids, Nov. 2, but came away with a new personal best time from the experience. Taking place at the Ridges Golf Course, which has some challenging hills and turns, the State meet saw good weather for the best of the best in Division 3.

“As Beau prepared, he treated it like any other race,” said coach Dan Yeager. “This season, a key focus was to continually spotlight effort over outcome.”

That approach seemed to work, with a goal of finishing in the top 40, which Steinke far surpassed. He came out of the first mile in 5:08, landing him in 21st place. It would have been a good showing among the top competitors in the state, but Steinke kicked it into high gear, to finish higher.

By the second mile marker, the time was 10:42, with Steinke gaining ground and moving into 19th place. On the last stretch, Steinke held off a runner and passed another, to cross the finish line in 16:45, a new record for him, claiming 16th place.

“Typically, kids run slower, because it’s a challenging course, so the fact that he PR’d by 7 seconds, is phenomenal,” said Yeager. “We went down a day early, to ensure we were not rushed and Beau was well rested, which I think was beneficial.”

Yeager credits Steinke’s family who made the trip to State, as well as his teammates who made the journey to State, for supporting Steinke, even walking the course and warming up with him, as usual.

“This level of camaraderie is what we, as coaches, are most impressed with,” said Yeager. “Strong programs are created by fostering relationships and ensuring a positive culture. The passion and kindness these athletes/ families showed for Beau, was remarkable.”

This year was an exciting one for the Hornets, while the future looks bright for next season, with Yeager hopeful the runners will persevere and make team State.

“Congratulations to all of our athletes and thank you to Beau, for setting a good example, by working hard, staying humble and always giving his best,” said Yeager.