Wierks Sisters Shine at State Track Finals, Help West Ottawa Secure Eighth Place

ROCKFORD - The Wierks twins showcased their remarkable talents at the state track finals, finishing second and third in the 800 meters. Collette and Ella Wierks, representing West Ottawa, played a significant role in the team's overall performance, which culminated in an eighth-place finish at the Division 1 state track and field championships held on Saturday, May 30, at Rockford High School.

With a total of 22 points, West Ottawa trailed behind Oak Park, which claimed the championship with 61 points. Collette, a returning state champion in the 800 meters, made a late surge but was narrowly beaten by Gull Lake's Lane Isom, who finished in 2:11.06. Collette clocked in at 2:11.54, while Ella followed closely in 2:12.77, securing third place. "It was very different from last year. It was a very messy and aggressive race... I am proud of the work I put in," Collette reflected after the race.

Ella, who did not compete in the fast heat at last year's meet, expressed her satisfaction with her performance this season. "This season has been hard and it is really fulfilling to accomplish my goals," she noted. The sisters have already committed to continue their running careers at Northwestern University in the Big Ten, highlighting the institution's strong academic and athletic programs.

In addition to their individual successes, the Wierks sisters contributed to the team's performance in the 4x800 relay, finishing third with a time of 9:11.49 alongside teammates Lyla Dowling and Mary Dolbow. "We were ranked No. 11 going in and we knew we could place top three," noted Dowling. The relay team crossed the finish line just behind Ann Arbor Pioneer and Ann Arbor Skyline.

West Ottawa also saw strong performances from Elizabeth Watkin, who placed 10th in the shot put, and Kelsey Simpson, who finished 18th in the 100 hurdles. Zeeland East's athletes made their mark as well, with Lily Huizenga taking fourth in the shot put and Adalyn Raab finishing fifth in the 1,600 meters.