Local Athletes Break Records and Qualify for State at OHSAA Regional Track and Field Meet
Several local high school athletes delivered standout performances at the OHSAA Regional Track and Field Meet this past weekend, breaking school and meet records while earning coveted spots at the upcoming state championship.
In a display of speed, strength, and determination, student-athletes from across the region converged for one of the final chances to punch their tickets to the OHSAA State Championships. Among the top highlights was the performance of Westville High School’s senior sprinter, Jasmine Taylor, who shattered the regional record in the 200-meter dash with a blistering time of 23.87 seconds. Her dominant showing not only earned her gold but also set a new personal and school best.
“It feels surreal,” Taylor said. “I’ve been working toward this all season, and to see the hard work pay off is incredible. Now it’s time to focus on the state meet.”
Taylor also anchored Westville’s 4×100 relay team to a first-place finish, joining teammates Maya Bennett, Alana Ford, and Sierra Greene in clocking 47.92 seconds — a new school record and the second-fastest time in the state this season.
On the boys’ side, Central Heights’ standout junior, Elijah Moore, leaped into the spotlight — and into the record books — with a stunning 6-foot-10 high jump, setting a new regional mark and comfortably qualifying for the state finals. Moore, who has battled injuries over the past year, credited his coaches and physical therapy team for helping him return to peak form.
“It’s been a tough road, but I never gave up,” Moore said. “To come back like this and break a record is amazing. I’m just getting started.”
In distance events, sophomore phenom Olivia Chen from River Valley blazed through the 3200 meters with a time of 10:36.52, dominating the field and setting a new meet record in the process. Chen, who finished third at last year’s state meet, said she’s focused on taking home the title this year.
“My goal is to win,” Chen stated. “This meet showed me I’m ready to compete with the best.”
Several other local athletes earned state qualifications with top-four finishes in their respective events, including sprinter Marcus Hill (Northbrook, 100m and 200m), hurdler Tiana Wallace (Eastside, 300m hurdles), and the Oak Grove boys’ 4×800 relay team.
Coaches across the region praised their athletes for their performances and discipline throughout a long season.
“These kids have put in the work since the first day of practice,” said Westville coach Renee Hopkins. “We’re proud of every athlete who competed, and we can’t wait to see what they do at state.”
The OHSAA State Track and Field Championships will be held next weekend at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus. With momentum building and records falling, local fans have every reason to be excited as their athletes prepare to take center stage on Ohio’s biggest track platform.
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