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SportsMay 21, 2004

Three individual state titles, a top-five finish and a team state title. Those goals would likely seem a bit lofty for most high school athletes at one state track and field meet. But then again, Scott City senior Loren Groves is no ordinary athlete...

Three individual state titles, a top-five finish and a team state title.

Those goals would likely seem a bit lofty for most high school athletes at one state track and field meet. But then again, Scott City senior Loren Groves is no ordinary athlete.

"I always like to set my goals high," Groves said. "That gives me something to work hard for."

Groves, along with several of her Scott City teammates will travel to Jefferson City to compete at the Class1 and Class 2 state track and field meet today and Saturday at Dwight T. Reed Stadium on the campus of Lincoln University.

Groves won state titles last year in the Class 2 discus and 100 meter hurdles, and with her times and distance this season in those events already surpassing her state performances, there is no reason to question her goals.

Groves, who will compete next year at Kansas St., said she is concentrating more on trying to set personal records than winning, but feels her best should put her near the top.

"I know I have a good chance. As long as I do my best I'll be fine," she said.

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An 11-time all-state track performer, Groves has steadily improved each season. Her first two seasons saw second-place finishes in the 100 hurdles and discus both years. Groves was able to capture both events last season, and after finishing fifth, fourth and second in the 300 hurdles, respectively, this could be her year for that event as well.

"I'm really excited. I just have to stay focused and relaxed," Groves said.

While Groves will be the heavy favorite in the discus, she will have defending state champion to contend with in the shot put. Elisha Hunt of Linn had a throw of 45-8 1/4 to win the title last season. Meanshile, Groves finished fourth with a throw of 35-9.

"If I can throw a 39 then I should get in the top three," Groves said.

Groves' personal success has helped the Rams finish high in the team standings over the past few years. Scott City finished fourth last year with 33 points -- all from Groves. In 2002 the Rams placed seventh, with 27 points coming from Groves.

This year, with the progression of distance runners Christy and Angie Laxton, Scott City should have a chance to finish even higher. Both runners made the trip to state last year. Megan Eaton will also make the trip for Scott City in the 400, and the Rams' 3,200 relay team won the district title.

"We're hoping to get better than fourth," Groves said.

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