Weather delays start of high school track

By Sam Waller

The Albany Lions and Lady Lions track and field teams had the start of their season delayed last week because of winter weather, but will hit the ground running Thursday, March 3 (today) at Anson.

The Albany boys return two state qualifiers in senior Luke Ivy and junior Cole Chapman.

“We have a pretty good unit coming back from last year,” boys coach Rod Britting said. “We feel like we’ll be competitive in several events.”

Ivy went to state in the triple jump and also qualified for regional as part of the 400 and 1600 relays. Chapman went in the high jump as well as qualifying for regional in long jump, triple jump, and 400 relay.

Other returning regional qualifiers are pole vaulters Tye Edgar and Jayden Lucas, triple jumper Jaheim Newton and Adam Hill in the 110 and 300-meter hurdles and 1600 relay.

“The first couple of meets, we’re just trying to get used to the competition part of it, get our feet wet,” Britting said. “The younger guys need to figure out what it’s like competing at a higher level.”

Meanwhile, the Lady Lions return five regional qualifiers, including three from the 800 relay – Kam Browning, Sarah Cotter, and Ashlyn Holson. Cotter also advanced in the high jump.

Also back are Briley Tabor in the pole vault and Ella Webb in the 300 hurdles.

“We have some experienced upperclassmen who should provide leadership for us as a team,” girls coach Missy Dutchover said. “Our district is very competitive, so we want to work hard and be prepared for each meet.”