Oelwein's Meyer repeats in 3A high jump

DES MOINES -- Just jump.

That was Stephen Meyer's self-motivational speech as he approached the Class 3A high jump competition Thursday morning at Drake Stadium.

"I was (seeded) fourth coming in, so I told myself, 'Just jump. Have fun. Compete.' "

He forgot one item. Repeat.

A junior from Oelwein High School, Meyer captured his second consecutive title at the state track meet. He cleared 6 feet, 7 inches on his first attempt.

Just jump. Just win.

"This feels great. I came in comfortable and ready to compete," Meyer said after setting a personal best by one inch. "Winning last year, I didn't psych myself out or let that mess with my head.

"When I made 6-7, I was, 'All right. This can happen.' "

Pel Deng of Storm Lake also cleared 6-7, but Meyer won on fewer misses.

Glenwood holds the first-day lead in the 3A boys' team standings. The Rams have 24 points through five events. Sioux City Heelan is second with 20 points.

Jared Ganschow of Clear Creek Amana concluded a busy morning with a runner-up finish in the 400. Heelan's Mike Malloy passed Ganschow in the final stretch to win in 48.34 seconds. Ganschow was clocked in 48.60.

"My legs are killing me," said Ganschow, who had previously qualified for the 100 and 200 finals -- he is the No. 2 seed in both. "I just didn't have much left. I didn't have the kick I wanted."

Ganschow is one of numerous CCA boys sporting a mohawk haircut.

"Everybody's doing it," he said. "I got mine done at Great Clips."