Chiefs' Nielsen fifth at state discus competition

TACOMA -  It may have been a lonely trip to Mt. Tahoma High School for Moses Lake Chief Sadie Nielsen, but the sophomore had enough focus to keep this visit in perspective.

That's because the Chief took part in the Class 4A discus finals and in doing so, represented her school's program well.

Nielsen ended up in fifth place with a throw of 123'1" to wrap the Moses Lake track season with something to build on in the future.

"Going to state was a really fun and a great experience," Nielsen said. "There wasn't a point where I was overwhelmed because I was at state. It was a pretty big deal though. Don't get me wrong, I was nervous, but I knew I could get on out there and perform. I was surrounded by all of these amazing athletes that I would have to compete with."

Nielsen's spot in the event's order didn't hurt her cause either.

"I felt like I was in a good position in the order of throwing because I knew I couldn't let the girls that threw before me catch my mark, and I knew I had to throw better than the girls that threw after me," Nielsen said. "I felt really good about my performance on Thursday. I had only been throwing in the 120s for the last two weeks and most people throw their P.R. and then they can't hit it again for a while. So for me to throw in the 120s for the last three weeks of the season was good for me."

Nielsen's place in the final standings left her behind two departing seniors so a chance to move up the ranks along with two juniors could be in the making.

"I plan on doing some work in the winter and going to indoor meets," Nielsen said. "Because I P.R.'d in the last three weeks of this season, I am going to go into the 2012 season more dedicated since I know what I am capable of."