Girls’ Track: Freshman Phenom Furnald Jumps into Fifth

By: Nathan Bloechl — sports@kilj.com 

Des Moines — Remember this name: Kenna Furnald.

Today the young Danville Bear showed why so many are excited about her future.

Furnald lept 15 feet, 6 1/4 inches placing her fifth in a loaded Class 1A long jump field, earning herself a medal.

Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to make the finals” Furnald exclaimed.

So when I made it I was so excited and maybe even surprised.” 

Her best jump this year was 16 feet, 1 3/4, but with the weather being what it was the Danville wunderkind was smiling ear-to-ear about her performance

I was nervous about [the weather] but the rain stopped for a brief moment and that helped me.” 

Again just a freshman, there’s no doubt in Furnald’s mind that she belongs on this stage.

Now, she wants to be back.

I am so glad I was able to make this field. I am going to take this experience and grow and hopefully be back in the coming years.”

If today was any sign — she might not have to hope.