Centennial’s Synai Davis was dealing with a quad injury as she prepared for the Class 5A girls state track championships at Desert Oasis. Despite the physical challenges, the junior not only competed but also played a pivotal role in securing the Bulldogs’ second consecutive state title and their 11th in the last 12 years with a total of 90 points, just edging out Liberty who finished with 87 points. Davis’s second-place finish in the triple jump event was the deciding factor, even though she was in significant pain throughout the competition.
Coach Roy Session expressed his uncertainty about Davis’s ability to compete due to her injury, but she managed to excel in the long jump, the 4×100-meter relay, and the triple jump. Session commended the entire team for stepping up and exceeding expectations at the state meet. Chayanne Gordon from Liberty and Amaya Stepp from Legacy were among the standout performers in the competition, showcasing their talents in various events.
In the 5A boys category, Justin Rawe from Shadow Ridge dominated the meet by winning four events and leading his team to their third state title. His exceptional performance in the 800 meters, 1,600 meters, 3,200 meters, and the 4×800 relay contributed significantly to the Mustangs’ total of 113 points. Legacy and Liberty secured the second and third positions, respectively, in the competition. Coach Mike Smith credited Rawe for his outstanding achievements but also acknowledged the team’s collective effort in achieving such a decisive victory.
Moving on to the 4A girls section, Arbor View emerged as the clear winner with 151 points, followed by Desert Oasis and Sky Pointe. Athletes like Anaiyah Ross, Lacy Tippetts, Derriah Wren, and Miracle Siaosi displayed remarkable performances in their respective events. In the 4A boys division, Desert Oasis dominated with 176 points, while Arbor View and Green Valley secured the second and third spots. Kenan Dagge and Noah Lara were instrumental in Desert Oasis’s success, clinching victories in multiple events.
In the small-school categories, Lowry, Lincoln County, and Eureka emerged as champions in the girls’ division, while Moapa Valley, Lincoln County, and Mineral County claimed victory in the boys’ division across different classes. The overall competition showcased exceptional talent and determination from athletes across various schools, making the state track championships a memorable event for participants and spectators alike.
