Seniors: Back Row - Hunter Harms, Ty Sopko, Kobe Umbaugh, Max Dewhurst, Simon Mayer, Jason Lee, Kjuan Smith, Samuel Hughes. Front Row - Bryant Bridges, Silas Gann, Ethan Bertram, Luke Raulie, Deegan Moore, Wyatt Bertram

At the Drake Relays on April 25, 2026, the day demanded patience and resilience. Severe weather pushed the 400m hurdles from its scheduled 2:03 p.m. start to 3:09 p.m., but when the race finally went off, Holden Reynolds delivered.

Competing against some of the fastest athletes in the state, Reynolds placed 14th while setting both a personal record and a new school record at 53.99. The time itself reflects a high level of execution, even if the placement shows just how competitive the field has become. As Coach Hovenga noted, it’s remarkable that a sub-54 performance didn’t crack the top 10—an indication of the rapidly rising standard in this event.

Still, the focus remains clear. A personal best at a meet of this caliber is meaningful progress, and Reynolds, a junior, now sits ranked 4th in Class 2A in the 400m hurdles. With two weeks until the Top of Iowa West Conference meet, the emphasis shifts to refinement—dialing in rhythm, efficiency, and race strategy.

The foundation is set. Now it’s about sharpening the edge and preparing to compete at the highest level when it matters most.