|
JEFFERSON CITY – With a stout field, including last year’s state champion Ezekiel Elliott, the Class 3 110-meter hurdles expected to be a highlight event. Grandview’s Dapo Akinmoladun provided the fireworks and more with a state record run of 13.56, placing him fifth in the nation this year. “It’s really hot, so you want to get out of the sun as fast as possible,” Akinmoladun joked as the reason for his fast time. He also gave a nod to the environment of the state meet and the friends and family in the stands. His smooth run, gliding over each hurdle also had a lot to do with the new record. “I was close to hitting a couple, but good thing I didn’t,” said Akinmoladun, who has signed to run hurdles and sprints at Nebraska. “My coach has been preaching fast and aggressive to the first two (hurdles), fast and aggressive to the first two, and everything else will take care of itself. It happened today and I’m thankful for that.”
Akinmoladun also won the 300-meter hurdles in 37.34, the fourth fastest time in state history. Elliott, a junior from John Burroughs, has been one of Akinmoladun’s biggest rivals for the past two years. Elliott took second in both hurdle races after getting the better of Akinmoladun in last year’s 110s. He ran 14.13 in the 110, and 37.61 in the 300. Elliott, who has committed to play football and run track at Ohio State, will have a built in conference rival when he gets to college. “Two years – I’ll see you again,” Elliott joked with Akinmoladun as the two exited the awards area. Elliott first was considering next year, and even with Akinmoladun graduating, Elliott isn’t going to leave anything to chance. “I’ll keep working, and I have something to work for,” Elliott said. “Now I know what to work for this summer; this is very humbling.”
Complete Meet Coverage |
