The 2009 MHS graduate who maintained a 3.94 GPA at MHS is the daughter of Paul and Kathie Minerich of Montrose. “I’m very proud of her,” Paul Minerich said.
Earle said her father insisted she try out for track in the eighth grade at Columbine Middle School.
 Montrose High graduate Kyra Earle set two school records at MHS including the long jump and triple jump, and was a three-time state qualifier. (Courtesy Photo) Advertisement |
According to Paul, Earle had three first-place finishes and one second-place finish in her first meet as a Columbine Ram.
"I just remembered her being so happy with what she had done," Paul said.
Then former Columbine track coach Pat Hooley saw a talent in Earle and pushed her to pursue the sport because there were possibilities of a college scholarship.
Since then, Earle has set school records and qualified for the Colorado High School State track meet in multiple events.
Earle's long jump and triple jump bests are current MHS records. She is also a three-time state qualifier in events such as the sprint medley relay.
"She will be a wonderful addition," Jamestown College women's track coach Jim Clark said.
In addition to track, Earle played three years on the Lady Indians basketball team under coach John Mraule and one year on the softball team while retaining track and field as her best sport.
Now it is time to take her talents to another level.
Jamestown College recruited Earle this year and awarded her $32,000 in both an academic and track scholarships — a reward Earle said she was surprised to receive.
And while the 18-year-old remains "way nervous," about her next endeavor, she is excited.
"I'm looking forward to learning and getting even better, she said.
Earle is considering a degree in the arts and education.
The Jamestown College women's track team is a year-round program with both indoor and outdoor events.
Jamestown College started the school's track program in 1979; Clark is entering his 31st season as the women's head coach. Clark's track and cross country teams have won 34 conference team championships, 16 NAIA District 12 or Great Plains Region championships.
"I am a happy coach to have Kyra decide on Jamestown College. She is an impressive young lady in many ways. Although she has perhaps had the most success in the long jump, she can help the team in the jumps, sprints, and relays," Clark said in a press release.
"I'm looking forward to a good college experience, and an entire team of friends already," Earle said.
Becky Olson wrote on Jul 27, 2009 9:08 AM:
Marty & Becky Olson in Norwood "