Bulldogs Dominant in Yakima: Stewman Leads Record-Breaking Day at Papa Wells Invitational
YAKIMA, WA — The Ellensburg Bulldogs track and field team made a loud statement on Saturday, March 21, at the Papa Wells Invitational held at East Valley High School. Serving as a crucial “CWAC Preview” with all nine league teams in attendance, plus several 4A powerhouses, the Bulldogs proved they are the team to beat this spring, securing five event titles and a long list of podium finishes.
Stewman Shatters Personal Best in Field Events
The individual performance of the day belonged to Silas Stewman, who “stole the show” in the shot put. Stewman uncorked a massive throw of 52-11.5, shattering his previous personal record by a staggering five feet to take first place. The Bulldogs showed elite depth in the circle, as Carlos Patino also cleared the 50-foot mark (50-4.5) to take fourth place.
The Bulldogs’ dominance in the field didn’t stop there:
- James Hall continued his winning ways, taking the high jump title with a leap of 6-4.
- Cash Eylar reached a personal milestone in the pole vault, clearing 12 feet for the first time to secure the victory. Teammate Cade Smith followed in fourth at 11 feet.
- Levi Gough added to the trophy haul with a second-place finish in the discus (150-9).
Track Stars Heat Up the Straightaway
On the track, the Bulldogs showcased both speed and endurance in the beautiful Yakima weather. Sascha Johnsonclaimed the 400m title with a blistering time of 51.62, while Caleb Reynolds pushed the pace to finish third (52.29).
In the distance events, Grace Beachy added another win to her resume, taking the 1600m in 5:17. Mystic Hammondalso delivered a standout performance, finishing second in a highly competitive boys’ 1600m with a time of 4:29.
Papa Wells Invitational: Ellensburg Event Winners
| Athlete | Event | Mark/Time | Highlight |
| Silas Stewman | Shot Put | 52-11.5 | 5-Foot PR |
| James Hall | High Jump | 6-4 | Event Winner |
| Cash Eylar | Pole Vault | 12-0 | First time over 12′ |
| Sascha Johnson | 400m | 51.62 | Event Winner |
| Grace Beachy | 1600m | 5:17 | Event Winner |
Notable Podium Finishers:
- Yusen Liang: 2nd in 110m Hurdles (New PR: 16.01)
- June Nemrow: 2nd in 3200m (11:52)
- Boys 4×400 Relay: 3rd (Sullivan, Finn, M. Hammond, D. Hammond — 3:39)
- Yutong Liang: 3rd in 300m Hurdles (49.15)
- James Hall: 3rd in Long Jump (20-3.5)
What’s Next
With spring break officially underway, the Bulldogs will take a brief hiatus from competition. The team returns to action at home on April 2nd for a JV meet, followed by the prestigious Holder Relays on April 6th.
