Published in the May 18, 2018 edition

By JENNIFER GENTILE

MELROSE—The Melrose Red Raider track team competed in their final dual meet of the season when they traveled to Burlington to take on the Red Devils. Despite a loss, Melrose earned several top spots and first-place finishes on the eve of the Middlesex League Meet on May 21 at Regis College. Melrose will also compete in the Div. 3 State Finals on May 26.

One highlight of their effort against Burlington is the continued domination of Liam Rittenburg in the 400 hurdles. He remains undefeated in the event, and against the Red Devils ran a 60.3, which represents the best event time in the league and bodes well for his chances in the May 21 competition. Rittenburg also finished 8th over the Andover Boosters Invitational Meet on Saturday night.

Melrose senior captain Steve Stromski was another big winner, scoring big against Burlington and qualifying in the mile.

LIAM RITTENBURG is proving a force in both jumping events and hurdles for the Melrose boy’s outdoor track team. (Donna Larsson photo)

The Red Raider’s weight events have shown steady improvement with shot putter Peter Lewis placing first at 44’5″ and senior Adam Caffey leading the team in the in the javelin with a best throw of 124′ 3″. Junior Jon Fortier showed strength in the shot/disc and junior Josh “Ace” Ventura continues to improve in the javelin. Junior James Talbot has earned a top time in the 200 meter at 23.6 and Nate Monges ran an impressive 10.8 in the 100 meters. Isaac Seide also competed in the 100 meter with a speedy time of 10.5 in but his competition, overall this season, has been limited due to injury. Rookie Charlie Demayo ran a best time a running a sub 5 in the 1 mile. Also competing were Alex Brincherio, Bennett Kraunelis and Will Hanlon. 

Some of Melrose’s experienced athletes have sat out with injury (Isaac Seide, Rey Guity) while Peter Weisen has been limited to disc but performing nicely, as he placed second against the Red Devils.

Look for Melrose to vie for several sports on the podium when they compete in the Middlesex League Meet on May 21 at Regis University.