Johnson enjoys 30-foot improvement at Buchanan Distance Classic

By Erik Boal, DyeStat Editor

Buchanan junior Christian Johnson didn't qualify for the California state championship meet in his home venue last year.

Judging by his season-opening performance in the discus throw Friday at the Buchanan Distance Classic, Johnson not only has the potential to compete this year in the state final at Veterans Memorial Stadium, but potentially win the championship.

Johnson improved his personal best from last season by more than 30 feet, throwing a nation-leading 191-9 (58.44m). Crandall TX junior Branson Bragg had thrown 190-4 (58.02m) on Feb. 15 at the Wylie East Mike Williams Invitational.

Johnson also added a victory in the shot put with a mark of 53-1.25 (16.19m).

Buchanan sophomore McKenna Chaney won the girls discus throw with an effort of 133-3 (40.62m) and junior teammate Maren Butler secured victory in the shot put at 40-7.25 (12.38m).

Buchanan junior Meagen Lowe won the girls 800 (2:22.37) and 1,600 (5:07.52). Sophomore teammate Corie Smith won the girls 3,200 in 10:59.32 and took runner-up in the 1,600 (5:09.25).

Monache junior Ivan Mendez prevailed in the boys 3,200 (9:46.33), Reedley senior Christian Gomez captured the 1,600 (4:29.94) and Clovis East junior Sebastian Medina won the boys 800 (1:59.93).