The Taylorville Tornadoes boys track and field season came to a close Saturday at the sectional meet in Troy, but several athletes punched their tickets to the IHSA State Finals in Charleston next weekend.

According to head coach Jake Koniak, the Tornadoes turned in a strong overall performance with multiple personal records, standout efforts, and several close calls throughout the meet. In the end, five Taylorville athletes qualified for the state meet.

Liam Bettis earned a pair of state qualifying performances, taking second place in the 3200 meter run with a time of 9 minutes, 11.49 seconds, while also finishing second in the 1600 meter run in 4 minutes, 19.74 seconds.

Colt Perkins qualified in the 3200 meter run with a third-place finish and a time of 9 minutes, 33.82 seconds.

Alex Davis advanced to state in the 1600 meter run after placing fifth in 4 minutes, 29.63 seconds.

In field events, Chase Rincker qualified in the pole vault with a second-place effort of 12 feet, 8-and-three-quarter inches.

Connor Hunsley also qualified for state in two throwing events, placing seventh in discus with a throw of 148 feet even and sixth in the shot put with a mark of 50 feet, 1-and-one-quarter inches.

Coach Koniak also wished good luck to Elayna Harker and Elsie Williamson, who will compete at the girls state meet Friday and Saturday.