Fatima sophomore Michael Gabelsberger turned in a strong performance at Saturday’s Class 3 state championships at Gans Creek in Columbia, earning an All-State medal for his 23rd-place time of 17:28.

Michael had a tough year last year dealing with injury, so it was great to see him realize one of his goals this year with the All-State run,” said Coach Marc Bridges. “Nobody outworks Michael. He pushes himself to be the best he can every day, and this weekend, he was able to reap the reward of all that work. Michael got out very hard to ensure he had a top spot and really gutted it out through the second half of the race. I’m really proud of him and excited for him to earn All-State.”

Gabelsberger said he suffered splints last year and didn’t run very well. “I stretched and warmed up properly this year and gave my all in the race,” he added. “Everybody wants to go to state, and I trained hard all year. I’m pretty happy to earn All-State.”

Being the lone runner representing Fatima didn’t bother Gabelsberger. “I run by myself a lot in practice, so it wasn’t too weird, but I wish the rest of the team was here with me,” he said.