Gunther Succeeds at Regional USA Track Tournament

Camas sophomore Ryan Gunther hasn’t let up since school let out.

For several years, he’s participated in middle and high school Track & Field doing various events, but this summer he’s doing even more. He signed up for USA Track & Field (USATF) and he just competed in a regional competition in Bend, OR, finishing second in 400m hurdles and third in high jump.

To qualify for regionals, he finished first at the State USATF meet in both events (hurdles and high jump), and at a recent association meet he earned second in the 400m hurdles and third in high jump.

USATF is divided into several regions across the country, and Gunther did well in Region 13’s meet this past weekend, qualifying him for the USATF national meet in late July, in Baltimore, MD. His family is seriously considering the invitation.

To be sure, Gunther is an athlete. He played Little League several years ago. He’s a successful soccer player, having played for years with the Cheetahs and now with WSA Alliance. Last winter, he gave swimming a try – and was quite successful.

Camas sophomore Ryan Gunther competes for USA Track & Field.

At a recent State competition in Seattle.

So why track?

“I have always enjoying racing and I thought track would be fun,” he said. “I started off doing 400 meter and 800 meter races and decided to try hurdles and I really like it. “

Gunther started track several years ago, as a sixth grader at Liberty Middle School. He stays busy during these warm summer days by practicing hurdles Mondays and Fridays and the high jump every Wednesday, at Covington Middle School. Practices typically last 90 minutes to two hours.

His hurdles coach, Colleen Purwins, says Ryan “is very intense and focused.”

“He always works super hard and is always trying to improve,” she added. “If he sets his mind to do something he’ll do it.”

He will continue with track into the foreseeable future.

“Doing well at these meets feels great,” he said. “I love doing this.”