LAKEWOOD – Brighton High School junior David Rock, who qualified for his first state track and field meet, was ecstatic to have the experience he could get May 19. 

He was able to compete in the Class 5A Pole Vault competition, where he went out at 12 feet.

    "I'm just happy I made it to state in another sport than wrestling," said Rock, who finished fifth this past year at 152 pounds. "I will look to build on this year, get more experience and put in more work to clear 14 feet."

Rock has competed in track and field all three previous seasons, but this was his first time qualifying after dealing with the struggles of COVID-19. 

    "I've been working with Over The Bar to get better," Rock said. "I love pole vaulting because it is the closest you get to flying, you get to go up to 12 feet in the air."