Newton, IA — The Newton girls track and field team delivered a powerful performance at the annual Drake Relays in Des Moines today, smashing their season best in the 4×100-meter relay with a time of 50.67 seconds. This marked a striking improvement from their previous best of 51.56 seconds, propelling them from 78th to 53rd in statewide rankings ahead of the state meet.
The team’s remarkable day started after an early-season setback when a dropped baton at Oskaloosa forced the Cardinals to overhaul their relay running order. The fresh lineup paid off big.
Junior BrookLynn Britton led off the relay, followed by sophomores Camryn Klein and Ashlyn Karsten—who was strategically moved to the second exchange to run the curve—and senior anchor Lauren Clarke. Karsten, competing at the Drake Relays for the first time, credited the rearranged order for smoother handoffs and a cleaner race.
“I think our handoffs are better with this order,” Karsten said. “Being able to lean around the curve helped me do my best.”
The team’s new approach on exchanges proved crucial, especially as Clarke noted that perfecting handoffs can drive times even lower. “As soon as you get them down, the time drops even more,” she said, emphasizing the ongoing progress.
The Cardinals faced intense pressure on race day with a rushed environment at Drake Stadium, a stark contrast to the more relaxed state meet experience. Klein revealed the race chaos as the team unexpectedly had to retrieve a baton mid-event but still managed to maintain composure. “We thought we were going to get a baton but didn’t so we had to run down to get one,” Klein said. “I think our race was good. The handoffs were good.”
Newton finished 22nd among Class 3A teams in a meet where powerhouse squads ADM and Decorah also contested fiercely, clocking 48.04 and 48.5 seconds respectively.
The Cardinals also sported brand-new uniforms at the Drake Relays, which boosted team spirit. “I really like them,” Karsten said. “It’s a good addition to the team and makes it more fun.”
Clarke, the team’s lone senior and a Drake Relays veteran with three appearances, aims to run multiple events at the upcoming state qualifier, including the 100, 200, 400 meters and relays. She remains flexible about the lineup, ready to support wherever the coaches need her.
Beyond the high school squad, Newton’s junior high teams shone at the Relays with top-10 finishes in three events. Highlights included a third-place finish in the mixed 4×400 relay with Brayden Hunt, Kate Lamont, Caleb Colburn, and Lainey Rhoads. The girls sprint medley relay team and a new school record in the junior high 4×100 relay further signaled deep talent in Newton’s ranks.
The Newton Cardinals’ momentum at the Drake Relays sends a strong signal as they gear up for the state qualifying meet. With improved timing, sharper handoffs, and energized uniforms, the Cardinals are primed for more breakthroughs this season.
Alabama track and field fans should watch this team closely as their combination of resilience and teamwork puts them on the rise nationally.
