Elena Rybak Gives Father McGivney First State Championship Metal After She Places First in 1600 Meter Race

CHARLESTON – Elena Rybak was all smiles and pumped her fist after she crossed the finish line in the 1600-meter race in Charleston Illinois on Saturday. Rybak is the first Father McGivney Champion in history. She will bring a first-place medal back to Glen Carbon.

In the prelims on Thursday, Rybak punched her ticket to the finals with a time of 5:20.21. She came into the finals seeded second behind Kate Ahmari of Urbana University.

On Saturday Rybak helped her 4×800 team place second before a two and half hour rain delay which was beneficial for Rybak because she was able to get a nap and rest before her 1600-meter run.

As soon as the gun went Rybak jumped out to the lead and never looked back. She led the whole race and when she crossed the line with a time of 4:59.82. She raised her arms and smiled big.

“Omg it’s like unreal I’ve been working so long and it’s like my dream come true. I had a count down on my phone and I counted down all year till it was time for the state meet. Rybak said

She said since she is only a freshman she is looking for three more chances to be back at state.