LA CROSSE - Ben Lemirand likely is known more for his work on the football field than the track during his time at West De Pere, his 1,687 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns in three seasons earning him an opportunity to play for NCAA Division I University of St. Thomas.
Part of what has made the senior so good is his blazing speed.
He put it to good use in the 100-meter dash at the WIAA Division 1 state track and field meet June 7 at Veterans Memorial Stadium, winning the event in 10.57 seconds.
It was just ahead of Hartland Arrowhead junior Ryan Heiman, who clocked in at 10.59 to earn runner-up honors.
Lemirand’s first state championship comes in an event that often is not highlighted by a local athlete.
He is the first boy from the Green Bay metro area to win the 100 since Nate Ha