Is there a better stop annually on the local track and field circuit than Mullen’s Runners Roost?
The 18th meet will be held on Saturday, beginning at 8 a.m., at the Mustangs’ Brother Bernard Kinneavy de La Salle Stadium in South Denver.
Some 52 teams and more than 1,000 entrants are expected to compete in a format that centers on individual and relay performances.
Thirty-year Mustangs coach John Hancock’s pride is evident when discussing his all-comers gathering.
“It’s a fun meet,” the 61-year-old said. “I love it. It’s a lot of work, but I enjoy doing it.”
Weather conditions come and go, but a constant is the best in a given year usually make it a point to try and compete.
For instance, Valor Christian’s Haley Showalter, a national force in the hammer throw, will take part in the shot put and discus.
Monarch’s Andrew Barlow, who has negotiated 16 feet, 6 inches in the pole vault, is entered in his specialty.
Cheyenne Mountain’s William Mayhew and Thomas Staines will highlight the 800 meters, as will Monarch’s Isaac Green.
The girls 400 will feature ThunderRidge’s Kamryn Hart and Denver East’s Damajahnee Birch.
Regis Jesuit’s Javan Lanier will be one to watch in a talented 100 and the Raiders’ Austin Campbell should be the focus of the high jump; he recently cleared 6-11.
While no team scores are kept, Hancock said the meet will have teams from the likes of Yuma, Akron, Rifle … all were welcomed.
The meet is sponsored by Runners Roost, adidas, Gatorade and Outback Steakhouse. Also, every female who wins an event earns a bouquet of flowers; males are rewarded with a backpack.
“It’s as unique as it gets,” Hancock said. “Yeah, it’s pretty special.”
