Sports : On to State: VS track teams celebrate at Ehlinger's

State track: Vikings attended an event in their honor at Ehlinger's on Tuesday evening.

Along with the old-time traditions like pep rallies, the Vinton-Shellsburg track teams are celebrating their state qualification with a new tradition that began in the past year: A gathering at Ehlinger's Express.

The boys met there last night, where Mel Davis, manager (and Vikette track mom) welcomed the team. After a complimentary meal, the boys received a carnation and painted some of the windows.

The girls team will arrive at 5 p.m. this evening for a similar event in their honor.

The pep assembly is scheduled for 2:45 today at the high school. After the assembly, the boys will leave for Des Moines. The girls will leave after the event at Ehlinger's.

Davis began the tradition earlier this school year, after the VS cross country team earned a trip to state. The tradition has also honored the VS bowlers to congratulate them on their state appearance.

See more photos HERE.