Kasson-Mantorville's David Obst Claims Second Place at State 3,200 Meter Race

ST. MICHAEL — David Obst aimed for a top finish, but ultimately secured the runner-up position in the 3,200 meters at the Class 2A boys track and field state championships held at St. Michael-Albertville High School on Friday. The Kasson-Mantorville distance runner clocked in at a personal best of 9:19.85, improving his previous record by one second.

Though Obst hoped to shave off a full four seconds from his time, his coach, Mitchell Noel, noted that Obst still achieved significant milestones during the meet. “David is a little bit disappointed in not finishing first, but he still accomplished a lot,” Noel remarked. Following the race, Obst was set to attend his graduation ceremony before returning the next day to compete in the 1,600 meters.

Obst's race strategy involved a measured start followed by a surge in the middle, a plan he executed successfully, surpassing his fourth-place finish from the previous year. “It was a pretty typical game plan,” Noel explained. “He executed it well but just fell about four seconds short.”

In other events, Stewartville junior Thomas Lofgren faced his own challenges in the shot put. He achieved a commendable third-place finish with a throw of 55-feet-10 1/2, despite feeling the pressure of not having delivered his best throw throughout the season. Mankato East's Carter Schwartz took home gold with a Class 2A record throw of 61-2 3/4. Lofgren reflected on his experience, stating, "It gets a little bit frustrating trying to get that big throw... You have to stay patient."

Stewartville's Ella Theobald also competed strongly in the discus event, finishing second with a throw of 132 feet. Despite the pressure to match her previous best of 145 feet, Theobald expressed pride in her achievement. “I was a little bit upset about finishing second at first. But when I think about it, it is a huge accomplishment,” she said, as she prepares to continue her athletic career at South Dakota State University next year. The competition showcased the talent and resilience of local athletes, with many looking forward to future seasons.