A four year career came to a close for OHS senior Hannah Chappell this past weekend. The Alabama bound discus thrower competed in her final high school track and field event and went out with a bang. Chappell overcame the overwhelmingly high heat under the Clovis sun that reached triple digits.
Chappell reached the CIF State Track and Field Meet for the fourth year, and looked to be crowned state champion for the first time in her career. As a freshman, Chappell placed seventh in the state. She followed that up with a second place finish her sophomore year and placed fifth last year. Determined to return to the CIF State Meet, Chappell went undefeated in her final season in Valley Oak League action, and took first in both the Divisions and Masters.
“Going back to state for the fourth time in four years is surreal, but to be a medalist three straight years is special. I am truly blessed to have made it as far as I have,” Chappell said.
Over the two-day event, Chappell threw for over 151 feet on Friday during the preliminaries. Despite fouling three times, Chappell managed to regroup and throw for a 149 feet, three inch toss for her best of the day on Saturday, a throw that came on her second to last attempt. Her big toss earned her third overall and her third straight medal at the finals.
“All the hard work and dedication got me to where I am. Finishing third place in that kind of environment and competition, it feels great. It is special; just to go is an accomplishment but to bring home a medal in three of those years is very special to me,” Chappell said proudly.
During her four years in the Mustang program Chappell did not lose in VOL meets, and took first place in Divisionals and first in Masters each year. She was also nominated twice for The Sportsmen of Stanislaus Club Women’s High School Prep Division Athlete of the Year.
“My individual records and stats are great to have, but the one thing I will take away from my time at OHS will be that our varsity girls’ team went undefeated,” Chappell noted. “Twelve years and not a single loss in a Valley Oak League meet is amazing, to be a part of four of those teams is something I will cherish forever.”
Her father and coach, Brett Chappell, also shared his thoughts on the medalist.
“It is a nice way to finish the high school career. She went undefeated in league all four years, and even in CIF events, outside of the state meet,” he said. “It is incredible to see.”
Chappell finished her track and field career one week after the OHS graduation ceremony.
“I feel like I finally graduated from Oakdale. This was a great ride,” she said. “For those who want to come in and compete they should take this program very serious. They should train hard, stay dedicated, take every lift, throw, sprint serious and have a tremendous drive. But also have fun while you do it.”
