Phil Renslow

Phil Renslow

Athlete — Class of 1961

The 1961 track team probably had the four best shot and discus throwers in the state but by High School League rules only three could compete in the state meet. The three that went to the meet dominated both events.

The best of the best was Phil Renslow who was the state champion in both events.

Phil moved on to the University of Minnesota where he dominated the Big Ten in both events. After a serious injury, he moved to St. Cloud State to finish his career. He might well have competed for a professional track club but refused to take performance enhancing steroids which were common.

Phil began a teaching career in Minneapolis, which brought him back to Southwest in 1968 where he was a track coach and pool director in addition to teaching Physical Education. After a brief teaching career, he moved to the insurance industry but returned as a volunteer track coach who guided the career of Pat Bailey who set a new state record in the discus in 1974.

Phil’s wife, Margaret, was in the Class of 1960. They have four children.

Phil Renslow