JOPLIN, MO — Some athletes are content just making the record books. Neil Barstow? He's just getting started.

The Joplin High School senior recently shattered the school's discus throw record with a massive heave of 50.56 meters—that's 165 feet, 10 inches. But when you ask him about it, his response is simple: "The record is great, but I still want more."

That hunger has been driving Barstow since he first stepped onto the track as a freshman. "It was definitely relieving after trying to set that record for over two years," he says. But for this thrower, breaking a program milestone is just one step on a much longer journey.

Barstow's rise hasn't happened in a vacuum. He's quick to credit the people behind him: "None of this would be possible without my support staff and the coaches I work with every day."

Joplin throwing coach Dylan Wemer saw the potential early. "He's an even better person than he is an athlete…and he's an amazing athlete," Wemer says. "It's been awesome to see him grow. Every single time he throws, there's something he improves on. He knows exactly what needs to be fixed. He has a purpose and intent with everything he does."

That meticulous approach has paid off in a big way. Despite also being a standout on the football field, Barstow recently signed his National Letter of Intent with the University of Central Missouri for track and field. His goals at the next level are clear: "Eventually, I want to be an All-American. I'm always about learning and the coaching behind it. I think Central Missouri has a great mix of that."

With his senior season still in full swing, Barstow isn't slowing down. He's already placed at state twice in both discus and shot put—and he's aiming for a third trip to the podium. "I'm excited to see him do that this year," Coach Wemer adds.

Next up for Joplin: the Class 5 District 6 Tournament, starting Saturday, May 16. And if Barstow has anything to say about it, the best is yet to come.