Speedy Summer to continue track career at Hawkeye CC

Summer Barthelman was the latest Sigourney athlete to make her post-high school decision, signing her official letter of intent on November 14 to run track at Hawkeye Community College. Barthelman is a multi-sport athlete, competing in something every season, but believed track to be her truest calling.

                “I chose to continue my track career knowing I’m not done with the sport, and there’s still more I can accomplish,” Barthelman said. “Now that’s I’ve officially signed, it feels like a lot of weight has been lifted off my shoulders.”

                She knew that running track at Sigourney had the potential to lead to bigger things, with the help of running with some other top athletes at the school, including her sister Autum. Most recently the two helped Sigourney bring home a gold medal at the State track meet in the 4x100-meter hurdles, defending their title claimed a year prior.

                Summer’s signature event on the track is the400-meter hurdles, which requires both speed and endurance to finish well, let alone complete. She came in with one of the faster times in the state and out-ran her opponents to win her section by over two seconds, clocking a time of 1:06.18. That time was good enough to get her another medal to add to her collection, finishing in fourth place.

                Summer will get another chance to bring him a medal for a third consecutive year and will go into her final high school track season with a target on her back. She has also been part of the short to mid-distance relay events, often leading off with the baton.

                In addition to finishing out the basketball season, which just began, and track in the spring, Summer will be finishing up her classes in the health and sciences program through Indian Hills. She will then continue her education by studying Dental Hygiene, a two-and-a-half-year program, with plans on entering the workforce after completing her degree.