Charlie Robertson finally gets chance to defend boys 3000 title, gives Franklin 6A sweep

“It means a lot. I won the title in 2019 as a sophomore, so not being able to defend it last year made this more important to me this year.”

By Dan Brood | Photo by Taylor Balkom

Two years ago, as a sophomore, Charlie Robertson won a Class 6A state track and field championship in the 3,000-meter run.

Last year, with the spring sports season canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Robertson didn’t get a chance to defend his title.

This year, now a Franklin senior, Robertson kept the mentality of being a defending champion. He was of the mindset that he wasn’t about to give up his title.

He didn’t.

Robertson, using a super-strong finish, ran to victory in the 3,000 at the Oregon 6A Track and Field Showcase, held Friday at Pioneer Memorial Stadium in Oregon City.

“It means a lot,” Robertson said. “I won the title in 2019 as a sophomore, so not being able to defend it last year made this more important to me this year.”

South Medford junior Michael Maiorano sprinted to the lead at the start of the race, and he kept it going into the final two laps.

That’s when the time was right for Robertson.

“I knew that whichever way the race went out, I was going to make my move with about 800 to go. I put myself in position to do that, and made my move,” he said. “It was the right distance to go.”

It turned out to be perfect strategy, as, after taking the lead, Robertson quickly opened a gap.

“I usually finish strong,” he said.

Robertson won in a time of 8 minutes, 14.71 seconds.

“I was very happy,” he said. “It’s good to get out here and race against guys I’ve been racing against the last four years.”

Lincoln senior Mateo Althouse finished in second place at 8:17.54, and Maiorano was third at 8:23.43.

Robertson’s win gave Franklin a sweep in the 3,000, as Franklin senior Autumn Ost triumphed in the girls race.

“That’s awesome,” Robertson said. “I’ve known her since I’ve been in kindergarten. So, it’s very special that it happened.”

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Earlier:

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