New director looking forward to return of Mehock Relays on Saturday | Local Sports News

MANSFIELD — Shannon Sprang can’t wait for the starter’s pistol to crack Saturday at Mehock Field.

The newest director of the Mehock Relays is ready to get started after a year-long delay.

Sprang took over as meet director before the 2020 Mehock Relays, but the meet was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Last year I didn’t have an opportunity to get started right away so I felt like I was a little behind the eight-ball,” Sprang said. “Even this year it has been touch-and-go with COVID. Up until after the first of the year we were wondering what the state would do with spring sports.

“We will have some COVID protocols in place, but thankfully spring sports have been allowed to continue. I think it’s great, because these kids need their activities.”

The Mehock Relays, which began in 1927, will have a more local flavor this weekend at Malabar Intermediate School. The event traditionally draws several teams from surrounding states and Canada.

“We have mostly all Ohio teams,” Sprang said. “There was one school from Michigan that indicated they may bring some throwers. That is the only out-of-state participant we’re looking at at this time.”

Area track fans will get an early look at the best runners, jumpers and throwers north central Ohio has to offer. Teams from Mansfield Senior, Madison, Ontario, Shelby, Galion, Clear Fork and Ashland, among others, will be in action Saturday.

“We have 18 schools committed,” Sprang said. “Then we have a thrower group from southern Ohio coming and possibly the thrower group from Michigan.

“We feel like we have a very strong field considering the circumstances. The local schools may not be able to fill every event, but the events they are participating in they are filling with their best athletes.”

There will be some COVID-19 restrictions for fans to deal with Saturday. Only 300 fans will be allowed in the bleachers. An additional 200 fans will be permitted in the lawn area.

“We think we’re going to be OK in terms of attendance,” Sprang said. “We feel like we should be safe with 500 fans allowed in.

Field events begin at 10 a.m. Saturday. Running preliminaries will begin at 11 a.m. with finals beginning about a half hour after the prelims have concluded.

“We’re looking forward to a great day,” Sprang said. “Everyone is excited.”