Return Trip: Blue Devils return to state track meet

Published 4:19 pm Tuesday, May 19, 2026

QUINCY — Peyton Kuhl is no stranger to state competition and the pressure it brings with it.
“Pressure is a pleasure,” said the Quincy High sophomore.
In only two years of high school she has qualified for the IHSA State Cross Country Championships twice and now has qualified for Track and Field Championships for a second time as well.
Last year at the state meet, Kuhl ran a then personal best time of 2:16.7 to finish in 18th place. Kuhl ran faster then that last Wednesday at the Sectional meet running a new personal best time of 2:16.16.
“I would be very happy to make to the podium this year or even make the finals,” said Kuhl. “Even if I don’t, it will be a great experience to race at the state level.”
Kuhl is currently seeded 14th amongst the state qualifiers and is looking to improve her finish from last season.
Marlee Thomas has made great strides this season for the Lady Devils in the shot put. Last season she missed out on a trip to state after finishing in fourth place at Sectionals.
“I continually choose to get stronger and work harder,” said Thomas. “I have worked with my coaches to evaluate my strengths and weaknesses and we have determined the best way to improve both.”
Thomas finished in fourth place at Sectionals again this season, however she hit the qualifying mark this time to be able to advance.
Based off of Sectional results, Thomas is going into state ranked 11th. If she can get a throw like she had at the Western Big 6 Conference meet where she threw 12.32 meters, the Quincy High junior would put herself in a great position to medal at the IHSA State Meet.
“I want to see all the things I’ve been working on click,” said Thomas.
Sasha Betz advanced to the IHSA Track and Field State Championships in three events last Wednesday. Betz will compete in the 100, 200, and 400-meter wheelchair races.
Betz is no stranger to the state meet as the junior has competed in Charleston each of the previous, but she has always come away as the runner-up. Capping off the season with a state title would be a great conclusion to the season for Betz.