DES MOINES — South Tama junior Timmothy Chandonia made his state track debut with a 13th-place effort in the Class 3A shot put competition on Friday at Drake Stadium in Des Moines.

Having qualified for Drake Relays in April, Timm didn’t live up to his own expectations, fouling all three attempts in what was his first bout inside Drake Stadium. Bound to have a better showing, his first attempt yielded a distance of 48 feet, 1 3/4 inches to get him on the board.

In between throws, the Trojan thrower was practicing form and staying active. With a little slip-up, attempt two was a foul, raising the stakes for his third and final attempt.

Throughout the year, Chandonia has risen through the STC all-time list, now being positioned at second in the shot put, and the school record is something Timm has admittedly been eyeing.

With plenty or power and refined technique, Chandonia launched the implement to new lengths in his series, landing a throw of 49-9 1/4.

Landing in 13th place, the appreciative athlete thanked his coach and described their positive relationship.

“It’s basically a best friend to me,” Chandonia said. “After school I get to look forward to hanging out and getting coached.”

Reflecting after the competition brought up his nerves, which have played into some big moments in his season.

“I wish I would’ve went in there a bit more confident, but it was a good experience,” he said. “I’ll be back next year.

“I’m hungry for more.”