Linn’s boys’ 4x200-meter relay team closed the 2026 season by breaking the school record again during the Class 2 Sectional 2 meet at South Callaway, highlighting a strong finish for the Wildcats as several athletes turned in personal-best performances and continued late-season improvement.

The relay team of Kahne Brandt, Tommy Scheulen, Paulie Lopez, and Cody Heckman placed fifth in 1:33.61 while lowering the program record once again. Coach Robyn Baker said the junior-heavy group continues to build momentum despite narrowly missing a state berth.

“The boys came up a little short in the sectional race, but they did break the school record again,” Baker said. “These boys are all juniors, so I am confident next year will be great for them. They will come back stronger and ready to make it all the way.”

Linn’s 4x100 boys’ relay team of Brandt, Scheulen, C. Heckman, and Aaden Nelson added a sixth-place finish in 45.31. “They have struggled a bit with consistency, so that will be something to work on to make next year better yet,” said Baker.

On the girls’ side, sophomore Madison Wood earned fifth in the shot put with a personal-best throw of 11.03 meters. Baker said Wood’s work ethic and consistency paid off at the right time. “Madison was the lone representative from the throwers,” Baker said. “She has been working hard all season, and especially this last week, to stay consistent with the 10-meter throws, so it is great that she surpassed that. She is going to be one to watch next year.”

The girls’ 4x800 team of Adalyn Brandt, Genna Haslag, Ruby Herndon, and Elyse Brandt finished sixth with a season-best time of 12:02.44. Baker said the group was beginning to find its rhythm late in the season.

“The girls were just starting to hit their stride as a team, so going out with their season best was great,” Baker said. “I think continuing to work together and especially conditioning through the summer will help them so much as they prepare for cross country and track next year.”

Herndon also claimed eighth in the 800m in a personal-best time of 2:41.56. Baker said the sophomore continues to improve in the event. “This has been a newer race for her, and she is finding some success with it. She will definitely come back next year, ready to make it all the way to the state meet,” said Baker.

Although Linn’s season concluded one step shy of the state meet, Baker said the Wildcats showed continued growth throughout the spring season. “Thanks to all our athletes, parents, and supporters for a great season and a season of growth for the coaches and athletes,” Baker said.