Algoma’s Blahnik reaches podium with personal-best throw
Bobbi Blahnik’s goal was to leave La Crosse with a medal this year.
The Algoma sophomore knew she could accomplish the feat in her second WIAA state track and field meet.
However, she managed to surprise herself in placing third in the Division 3 girls shot put.
“It feels pretty great, but what feels even better is getting a foot and half PR,” Blahnik said.
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Blahnik ended her season with a throw of 41 feet, 6½ inches, which not only was a personal-best mark, but led the Green Bay area this season.
After finishing seventh at state last year to just miss the podium, Blahnik earned her first state medal to join her three older siblings, who all were state medalists in the throws during their prep careers.
Blahnik received a boost from having teammates Sydnee Guilette and Hannah Wessel continue their pre-throw routine together at state.
“They just say something to get me fired up and stuff,” said Blahnik, who also finished eighth in her first state appearance for the discus. “It gives me the good luck that I need.”
Blahnik’s third-place finish in the shot put was more a result of her form and speed, though.
“Her technique is about as good as we’re going to get it,” Algoma throws coach Dean Blahnik said. “It’s a matter of putting more speed into it to get the further distance.
“Right before her last throw I said, ‘You’re guaranteed a medal, and that’s what we came here for, but I said you’re in fourth. Don’t be satisfied with fourth.’”
Bobbi Blahnik certainly stepped up to the challenge, resulting in a step up on the podium with a throw that puts her third in school history.
“He was pretty excited,” Blahnik said about her dad’s reaction to her last throw. “He was just hoping for 40, and I pop out a 41. It felt so good. It’s a nice closure kind of thing to end the season.”