Rudroff a quick learner at long jump

Takes Class 2 state title

South Callaway's Garner Rudroff had not competed in the long jump prior to this year.

But he said he's always been good at jumping.

So why not try something new? Now he's a state champion.

The junior finished Saturday's Missouri High School Activities Association Class 1 and 2 State Track and Field Championships with a jump of 21-111⁄2 to take the Class 2 long jump title.

"I thought I'd try something new," Rudroff said about his decision to compete in the long jump. "I have a good vertical. I have close to the school record in the vertical, so I thought I'd try it and see how it goes."

Rudroff outjumped Lawrence Hogue of Maplewood Richmond Heights by a foot. Hogue was the top jumper at sectionals, but Rudroff was better Saturday.

By seeding, Rudroff was a surprise winner. He entered Saturday's competition as the sixth seed after his jump of 20-073⁄4.

It was Rudroff's second jump of finals that secured the victory.

"Coming into it, I think I was seeded pretty low," Rudroff said. "At sectionals I didn't do overly well. But coming in today I was confident. I knew what I had to do to win.

"I think at sectionals I just didn't perform as well as I could have. I was just satisfied I made it here."

Rudroff was the only boy to score points for the Bulldogs at this year's meet.

"This being my first year doing long jump, I had no idea what to expect," Rudroff said. "As the year went on I thought I might have the possibility of getting here, so it ended up working out.

"It's exciting. I've been waiting all year for this."

Related articles:

Saturday's MSHSAA Track & Field Championship Results

Delayed victory for Linn's Rush

South Callaway relay team wins title in first time together

Previous coverage:

Friday's MSHSAA Track & Field Championship Results

Heckemeyer achieves her goal

Another second-place finish at state for Rush

Irvin-Muhammad breaks pair of marks

Icing on the athletic year for Mehmert