From July 24-30, a few Lawrence High athletes Hunter Krom, Ella Stewart, Evann Seratte and Amaya Harris competed in the Junior Olympics taking place in Lawrence.

Senior Hunter Krom and freshman Amaya Harris both participated in javelin. Both competed against the nation’s best and found stiff competition in their events. Krom placed runner up in 6A last spring, but faced even tougher competition this time.

”The other competitors impressed me the most. They were amazing athletes and I am glad to have thrown against such good people,” Krom said.

Krom felt some anxiety entering the competition; he had not seen throwers of this caliber, even at the state and field track meet.

“… I knew I had to do my best to place, but I also used it as a learning experience,” Krom said.

Having the Junior Olympics in Lawrence was very special and rewarding to Krom, who had a lot of support.

“Having it [the Junior Olympics] in my hometown meant everything to me, because I knew I would have a lot my friends cheering me on,” Krom said.

Krom’s favorite moment from the whole experience was looking into the stands at all the people who came to cheer him on.

Incoming freshman Amaya Harris came in 14th in the girls’ 15-16 age group. Harris was not able to compete in javelin in middle school because it was not offered as a sport. She was impressed with her performance, being the youngest in her age group.

“I almost PR’d with how far I threw [the javelin],” Harris said.

Harris admitted the competition made her anxious.

“It was pretty nerve-wracking … everyone else had experience, and it was only my second year doing it,” Harris said. The competition brought out a best throw from Harris of 103 feet and 3 inches.

Krom and Harris both gained valuable experience and knowledge at this event. Both throwers will look to use this experience to their advantage this spring season.