Sean Mauracher said what most high school seniors have been thinking lately: “I can’t believe it’s almost over.”

Clear Creek’s graduation is slated for May 21 — the same day Mauracher hopes to run the 100-meter dash at the state track meet.

He, fellow senior Annika McKown and other Golddiggers will be competing at the state track & field meet May 19-21 at Lakewood’s Jeffco Stadium.

Along with the 100-meter dash, Mauracher hoped to compete with his teammates in the 4x100-meter and 4x200-meter relays.

McKown likewise planned to run the 400-meter dash at state, and improve on last year’s third-place finish in the high jump.

Mauracher and McKown were named captains of Clear Creek’s track & field teams this season, as they’re among the few seniors who’ve been in the program since their freshman year, coach Brian Inman said.

He also noted how Mauracher was named Athlete of the Year among the league’s boys track & field athletes, which is a major honor for him.

“(Mauracher and McKown) are two of the hardest workers on the team,” Inman continued. “ … They lead by example.”

McKown said stepping into the leadership role felt natural after being on the team for so many years. She and Mauracher were happy to see not only a growing team, but growth among the team.

McKown appreciated seeing so many people turn out for the 2022 track & field season, and Mauracher added that he’s seen everyone’s progress in terms of skill- and character-building.

He felt he was leaving the program in good hands, saying the younger athletes have demonstrated a strong sense of sportsmanship and work ethic this season.

Overall, he was proud of everyone — fellow athletes and coaches — and grateful for their hard work and support during his senior year.

Of McKown, Mauracher said it’s been awesome working with her throughout their high school careers, both on and off the track. She’s certainly one who understands how to lead a team by example, he said.

Of Mauracher, McKown felt similarly, saying he’s been awesome and a lot of fun to work with.

The two seniors both hope to compete in track & field in college. Mauracher plans to attend Northern Arizona University, and if he can’t participate on scholarship, he plans to at least walk-on for the track & field team.

McKown will attend the Illinois Institute of Technology, where she’ll study mechanical/aerospace engineering. She also hopes to compete on the school’s cross-country team as well as track & field.

With the literal and proverbial finish line in sight, McKown and Mauracher are hoping for one last chance to bring home gold medals as Golddiggers at the May 19-21 state meet.

“It’s bittersweet to be finishing up,” McKown said. “It’s been a cool four years.”