Bianca Walton was beaming Thursday, May 27, after winning her first state gold medal in the triple jump at Mount Tahoma High.

The Tahoma High senior not only picked up her first state victory, it was the first one for Tahoma as the 4A state track and field meet got underway.

Walton’s winning leap was her last attempt in the preliminary flight when she pegged 39 feet, 5 inches.

“I felt good, but I was nervous because the one girl went 38 (feet),” Walton said.

After her winning leap Walton said, “I was still nervous. Even on my last jump.”

Her nerves melted into a wide, happy smile when it became clear she was the best in the state.

In other action on the first day, Derek Eager took the silver in the shot put with a throw of 56-01.75.

Sam Wright from Mead High in Spokane won the event at 56-10.75.