South Lakes girls notch their first indoor track state title since 1988

“They’ve had a high level of success, and I think that just propels them to have even a higher level of success,” South Lakes Coach Scott Raczko said. “We had several runner-up finishes with a group prior to covid, so it’s always been one of those things where the program aspires to be at that high level — and these girls want that.”

That wasn’t the only title decided in the day’s last event. West Springfield entered the 4×400 within striking range of Western Branch in the Class 6 boys’ meet. The Spartans jumped an opponent to take home the hardware in similar fashion last year but couldn’t repeat that feat Tuesday, finishing second in the team standings with 46 points. Western Branch, of Chesapeake, prevailed with 54.6 points.

The South Lakes girls’ long-distance prowess helped them earn their first state title in 36 years — the Seahawks scored 32 of their points in those events. Sophomore Caroline Elliott claimed the 1,600 in a Class 6 record time of 4 minutes 49.67 seconds. She also won the 1,000 in 2:51.94, finishing just ahead of South Lakes senior Bella Harsanyi (2:53.62).

Those two, sophomore Aya Ryan and junior Catalina Simon made up the Seahawks relay team that shattered the 4×800 record Monday, finishing in 8:55.79 to top the mark set by Midlothian in 2007 by more than 11 seconds.

“It’s special when you have a hard-working group that gets along and has those common goals and gets excited for each other and their team success,” Raczko said.

Senior Paris Johnson got the West Springfield boys off to a quick start by winning the high jump at 6 feet 6 inches Monday. From there, the Spartans tried to piece together another state title, just like last year.

Junior Michael Murray (third) and senior Joseph Blumberg (fifth) combined for 10 points in the pole vault. The Spartans were second in the 4×200 relay. Strong showings in the shot put, the 55-meter dash and the 55 hurdles got them within striking distance ahead of the final race.

They needed at least a third-place finish to overtake Western Branch. But the Spartans dropped the baton in the final stretch and finished sixth; Western Branch was third to secure its state title.

“It’s hard to be really upset with second place for both genders,” West Springfield Coach Chris Pellegrini said. “I’m very proud of our program on both sides.”