By Matt Browning
Last season, Salina South’s Jalen Cheeks made significant strides in his two main events, triple jump and 800 meter.
Now the plan is to take last year’s momentum and continue it into the 2026 season.
“I want to focus more on my triple jump and 800 meter this season,” Cheeks said. “I felt last season was a huge step personally and I’m excited to build on it. I would say placing at regionals for triple jump is my biggest personal goal.”
The triple jump is the event that Cheeks really thrives in. Last season his best jump 39-10.
“My biggest strength for triple jump I would say is being able to jump through my phases with good form on both legs so I can hit my mark no matter which foot is forward,” Cheeks said.
When it comes to the 800, Cheeks thinks his offseason preparation will pay off in a huge way.
“I want to cut some time off my 800, because I think we have strong enough guys to produce a strong 4×8,” Cheeks said. “During the offseason I play football and basketball so I don’t have much rest but I’d say just staying in the weight room has helped across all three sports.”
