By: Nathan Bloechl — sports@kilj.com
Des Moines — Carter Allen said he didn’t really know what to expect when got into the shot put ring today.
Sure, the Drake Relays qualifier and fifth seed had medal hopes, but on a wet, rainy and slick day, anything could happen.
Allen though, well, he removed all doubt.
The terrific New London Tiger threw 50 feet, 8 3/4 inches placing him fourth in the Class 1A shot put field, earning himself a medal in the process.
“I am came in fifth so I am really happy about the finish, especially in these conditions.” Allen said.
Even with the pressure of a packed crowd, Allen said he wasn’t nervous.
Being around the competition of the Drake Relays helped, but the composure the young New London man showed today seems all natural.
“I wasn’t really nervous, it’s a great environment — I don’t really get nervous. Being at Drake helped a lot, getting used that to competition helped quite a bit.” said a smiling Allen.
He now holds the honor of being the first medalist in boys’ shot put in New London track history, an honor he won’t take lightly moving forward.
“It’s so awesome to be the first — an incredible feeling.”