The 2026 AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships featured record-breaking performances, including Kelson Hogan's javelin throw of 214 feet, 9 inches and the fastest 400-meter race in Arizona history by Nicole Ripperdan and Aliyah Morrow.
Key points
Kelson Hogan set a new javelin state record at 214 feet, 9 inches.
Nicole Ripperdan ran the fastest 400-meter race in Arizona high school history.
Ripperdan's time of 53.54 seconds ranks her No. 2 all-time in Arizona.
Aliyah Morrow's time of 53.64 seconds ranks her No. 3 all-time in Arizona.
The championships were held from May 7-9, 2026.
Mentioned in this story
Red Mountain High SchoolShadow Mountain High School
Kelson HoganNicole RipperdanAliyah Morrow2026 AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships
A state record fell and history was made at the 2026 AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships, held at Red Mountain and Shadow Mountain High from May 7-9.
Tempe Corona del Sol junior Kelson Hogan continued his record-breaking season in the javelin, besting his official state record with a throw of 214 feet, 9 inches to win the Division I title. Hogan, a former baseball player, broke the record earlier this season and has now moved to No. 6 in the United States for the event.
âTo be honest, I wanted 220 (feet),â Hogan said. âBut my coach told me that might not be possible on the grass. Iâm happy with what I had, but I wish it could have been a little farther. It means a lot. Just really grateful.â
On the girls side, Queen Creek senior Nicole Ripperdan and Chandler Hamilton junior Aliyah Morrow produced the fastest 400-meter race in Arizona high school history.
Ripperdan ran 53.54 seconds to win it, with Morrow second at 53.64. Ripperdan, a Utah State commit, moves up to No. 2 all-time in Arizona for the 400 and Morrow is No. 3. What makes this race historic is that before the race, only two girls from Arizona (Saffordâs Eureka Hall and Gilbert Highlandâs Gabby Taylor) had ever run under 54 seconds in the event.
Now, two girls did so in one race.
âIt shows how competitive Arizona can be and really is,â Ripperdan said. âEspecially in the 400. I think it really represents Arizona. We are, as a whole, getting faster over the years. Thatâs really exciting to think about.â
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young reacts after winning the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Audrey O'Connor (111) comes around the turn with the 1600m runners during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Q&A
What record did Kelson Hogan break at the 2026 AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships?
Kelson Hogan broke his own state record in the javelin with a throw of 214 feet, 9 inches.
How did Nicole Ripperdan and Aliyah Morrow perform in the 400-meter race?
Nicole Ripperdan won the race with a time of 53.54 seconds, while Aliyah Morrow finished second at 53.64 seconds.
What historical significance does the girls' 400-meter race hold in Arizona?
The race is historic as it marked the first time three girls from Arizona ran under 54 seconds in the event.
Where were the 2026 AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships held?
The championships took place at Red Mountain and Shadow Mountain High Schools.
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Highlandâs Brandon Delancey (910) celebrates Highland winning the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
The Boys 4x800 Finals take off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young reacts after winning the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Boys Division V runners make their way on the 4x800 relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
La Joyaâs Bryce Johnson (R) runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
La Joyaâs Bryce Johnson (R) runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Campo Verdeâs Romney Jones runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Maricopaâs Allen Vo runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Hamiltonâs Tori Morse (846) runs at the start of the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Mountain Viewâs Mack Huffaker runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Lemuel Williams runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Millenniumâs Garyah Reed runs in the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Mountain Viewâs Mack Huffaker runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
The Boys 4x800 Finals take off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Julian Oti-Prempeh runs in the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highlandâs Brandon Delancey (910) comes around a turn in third place during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highlandâs Brandon Delancey (910) celebrates Highland winning the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highlandâs Brandon Delancey (910) celebrates Highland winning the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young lines up at the start during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young races in the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Arizona Lutheranâs Joel Bayer (L) and Pimaâs Adam Bryce race in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Arizona Lutheranâs Joel Bayer (L) and Pimaâs Adam Bryce race in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Arizona Lutheranâs Joel Bayer (center) and Pimaâs Adam Bryce race embrace after placing first and second in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Arizona Lutheranâs Joel Bayer (R) and Pimaâs Adam Bryce race embrace after placing first and second in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Desert Edgeâs Asad Ali (center) leads in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Mountain Ridgeâs Sanel Eminovic (center) wins the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandler Prepâs Ava Vassall (R) reacts after winning the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Cesar Chavezâs Kyla Powell (474) leads Chandlerâs Jaiden Ware (504) in the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026. Powell would win the dash.
San Tan Charterâs Brody Prassas (L) and Arizona Lutheranâs Kaden Kubitz (97) embrace after finishing first and second in the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Arizona College Prepâs Tasimania Gallahar (L) wins the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Jaden Baldwin (L-R), Highlandâs Anthony Martin, Rowlen Greer race the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026. Baldwin finished second.
Highlandâs Brody Heussner (L) and Bashaâs Jaden Baldwin race in the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026. Heussner finished first and Baldwin finished second.
Girls 1600m runners take off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Girls 1600m runners take off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Jaden Baldwin wears his second-place medal during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highlandâs Brody Heussner (L) and Devin Murray wear their first and third place medals, respectively, after the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Girls 1600m runners make their way as the sun sets during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Girls 1600m runners make their way as the sun sets during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Taylor Drewry (center) comes from the middle of the pack to win the Girls 1600m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Taylor Drewry (center) comes from the middle of the pack to win the Girls 1600m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Taylor Drewry (left) comes from the middle of the pack to win the Girls 1600m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highlandâs Audra Huempfner (895) waits for the next race during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs Kalia Aguano waits for the Girls 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs Kalia Aguano waits for the Girls 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Corona Del Solâs Cristina Cooper waits for the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
North Canyonâs Sabriyah El-Amin helps her team win the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Scottsdale Christian Academy celebrates winning the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Scottsdale Christian Academy celebrates winning the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
North Canyonâs Sabriyah El-Amin (L) and Alana Johnson-Wilson embrace after they won the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Bashaâs Taylor Drewry (106) holds the second place medal during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
St. Johnâs Trace Nielsen (1905) helps his team win the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
St. Johnâs Trace Nielsen (1905) celebrates helping his team win the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Morenciâs Aundre McCauley jumps prior to a 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Morenciâs Aundre McCauley runs in the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Santa Ritaâs Omar Wright II (R) rests after a race during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs 4x100m relay team celebrates winning during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
A runner takes off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs Jaiden Ware (L-R), Imani Galera-Young, Jamiyah Ware, Kalia Aguano celebrate winning the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highlandâs Devin Murray beats Hamiltonâs Roman Oliver (871) on the final sprint to the finish line as they finish first and second in the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highlandâs Devin Murray beats Hamiltonâs Roman Oliver (871) on the final sprint to the finish line as they finish first and second in the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Hamiltonâs Aliyah Morrow (L-R), Teya Vallier, Jerzie Young and Tori Morse celebrate winning second place in the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highlandâs Devin Murray celebrates winning 4x100m relay with his team during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Canyon Viewâs Ryane Ast (L) wins the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Highland celebrates winning the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Queen Creekâs Nicole Ripperdan (R) and Hamiltonâs Aliyah Morrow finish first and second, respectively, in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Hamiltonâs Taleya Freeman rests after finishing third in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Queen Creekâs Nicole Ripperdan (L) and Hamiltonâs Aliyah Morrow finish first and second, respectively, in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
St. Augustine Catholicâs Jonathan Ochoa reacts after winning the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
North Canyonâs Dominic Dampier rests after finishing fourth in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
North Canyonâs Dominic Dampier rests after finishing fourth in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Williams Fieldâs Tyree McSwain wins the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
North Canyonâs Tiana Becketts reacts after winning the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young wins the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young wins the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Runners collapse at the end of a race during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Trivium Prepâs Benjamin Wolfley finishes first in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Trivium Prepâs Benjamin Wolfley finishes first in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Trivium Prepâs Benjamin Wolfley finishes first in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Red Mountainâs Matthew Heitz finishes second in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Mountain Ridgeâs Sanel Eminovic (1291) reacts to finishing first in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young reacts after winning the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young reacts after winning the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Audrey O'Connor (111) comes around the turn with the 1600m runners during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Brandon Delancey (910) celebrates Highland winning the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
The Boys 4x800 Finals take off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young reacts after winning the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Boys Division V runners make their way on the 4x800 relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
La Joyaâs Bryce Johnson (R) runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
La Joyaâs Bryce Johnson (R) runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Campo Verdeâs Romney Jones runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Maricopaâs Allen Vo runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Hamiltonâs Tori Morse (846) runs at the start of the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Mountain Viewâs Mack Huffaker runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Lemuel Williams runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Millenniumâs Garyah Reed runs in the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Mountain Viewâs Mack Huffaker runs in the 4x800 Final during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
The Boys 4x800 Finals take off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Julian Oti-Prempeh runs in the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Brandon Delancey (910) comes around a turn in third place during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Brandon Delancey (910) celebrates Highland winning the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Brandon Delancey (910) celebrates Highland winning the 4x800 Finals during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young lines up at the start during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young races in the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Arizona Lutheranâs Joel Bayer (L) and Pimaâs Adam Bryce race in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Arizona Lutheranâs Joel Bayer (L) and Pimaâs Adam Bryce race in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Arizona Lutheranâs Joel Bayer (center) and Pimaâs Adam Bryce race embrace after placing first and second in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Arizona Lutheranâs Joel Bayer (R) and Pimaâs Adam Bryce race embrace after placing first and second in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Desert Edgeâs Asad Ali (center) leads in the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Mountain Ridgeâs Sanel Eminovic (center) wins the 100m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandler Prepâs Ava Vassall (R) reacts after winning the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Cesar Chavezâs Kyla Powell (474) leads Chandlerâs Jaiden Ware (504) in the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026. Powell would win the dash.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
San Tan Charterâs Brody Prassas (L) and Arizona Lutheranâs Kaden Kubitz (97) embrace after finishing first and second in the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Arizona College Prepâs Tasimania Gallahar (L) wins the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Jaden Baldwin (L-R), Highlandâs Anthony Martin, Rowlen Greer race the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026. Baldwin finished second.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Brody Heussner (L) and Bashaâs Jaden Baldwin race in the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026. Heussner finished first and Baldwin finished second.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Girls 1600m runners take off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Girls 1600m runners take off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Jaden Baldwin wears his second-place medal during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Brody Heussner (L) and Devin Murray wear their first and third place medals, respectively, after the 100m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Girls 1600m runners make their way as the sun sets during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Girls 1600m runners make their way as the sun sets during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Taylor Drewry (center) comes from the middle of the pack to win the Girls 1600m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Taylor Drewry (center) comes from the middle of the pack to win the Girls 1600m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Taylor Drewry (left) comes from the middle of the pack to win the Girls 1600m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Audra Huempfner (895) waits for the next race during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Kalia Aguano waits for the Girls 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Kalia Aguano waits for the Girls 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Corona Del Solâs Cristina Cooper waits for the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
North Canyonâs Sabriyah El-Amin helps her team win the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Scottsdale Christian Academy celebrates winning the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Scottsdale Christian Academy celebrates winning the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
North Canyonâs Sabriyah El-Amin (L) and Alana Johnson-Wilson embrace after they won the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Bashaâs Taylor Drewry (106) holds the second place medal during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
St. Johnâs Trace Nielsen (1905) helps his team win the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
St. Johnâs Trace Nielsen (1905) celebrates helping his team win the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Morenciâs Aundre McCauley jumps prior to a 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Morenciâs Aundre McCauley runs in the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Santa Ritaâs Omar Wright II (R) rests after a race during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs 4x100m relay team celebrates winning during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
A runner takes off during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Jaiden Ware (L-R), Imani Galera-Young, Jamiyah Ware, Kalia Aguano celebrate winning the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Highlandâs Devin Murray beats Hamiltonâs Roman Oliver (871) on the final sprint to the finish line as they finish first and second in the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Devin Murray beats Hamiltonâs Roman Oliver (871) on the final sprint to the finish line as they finish first and second in the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Hamiltonâs Aliyah Morrow (L-R), Teya Vallier, Jerzie Young and Tori Morse celebrate winning second place in the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highlandâs Devin Murray celebrates winning 4x100m relay with his team during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Canyon Viewâs Ryane Ast (L) wins the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Highland celebrates winning the 4x100m relay during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Queen Creekâs Nicole Ripperdan (R) and Hamiltonâs Aliyah Morrow finish first and second, respectively, in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Hamiltonâs Taleya Freeman rests after finishing third in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Queen Creekâs Nicole Ripperdan (L) and Hamiltonâs Aliyah Morrow finish first and second, respectively, in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
St. Augustine Catholicâs Jonathan Ochoa reacts after winning the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
North Canyonâs Dominic Dampier rests after finishing fourth in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
North Canyonâs Dominic Dampier rests after finishing fourth in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Williams Fieldâs Tyree McSwain wins the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
North Canyonâs Tiana Becketts reacts after winning the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young wins the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Chandlerâs Imani Galera-Young wins the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Runners collapse at the end of a race during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Trivium Prepâs Benjamin Wolfley finishes first in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Trivium Prepâs Benjamin Wolfley finishes first in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Trivium Prepâs Benjamin Wolfley finishes first in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Red Mountainâs Matthew Heitz finishes second in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
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Scenes from the AIA Divisional Track and Field State Championships
Mountain Ridgeâs Sanel Eminovic (1291) reacts to finishing first in the 300m hurdles during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Ripperdan also unknowingly played a role in the Division I team championship being decided. She passed a Chandler athlete in the final meters of the 4x400-meter relay to finish second overall, taking away two critical points from Chandler.
The AIA State Track and Field Championships are May 15-16 at Mesa Community College.
Hamilton won the relay, giving the Huskies the team title â 92-91 over Chandler. The Battle of Arizona Avenue carries over to the track.
The Huskies were led by Morrow (200, 400), senior Kyana Williams (high jump), senior Taleya Freeman (200, 400) and senior Peyton Taylor (pole vault). It is the second title for Hamilton under coach E.J. Martin after winning the Open in 2024.
âItâs all about the hard work and dedication,â Martin said. âWhen I did take over, building the culture here, where not being surprised â you expect to be there, to compete for championships. Donât be shocked. Just getting the kids to buy into the culture here. Itâs been coming and itâs showing in the results.â
For the boys, Mesa Red Mountain dominated on its way to the team title, beating Hamilton 97-64.66. The Mountain Lions were led by junior Crew Comish (800, 1,600 and 3,200), junior Dameon Brender (200), senior Amare Holley (200, long jump), senior Joshua Lee (shot put) and senior Matthew Heitz (300-meter hurdles).
Red Mountain has won two state titles in the past four seasons after taking the Open in 2023.
âWeâve had a really good run the last few years,â coach Josh Barge said. âIt goes to our kids, the culture. All these kids grew up in Red Mountain. They bleed Red Mountain. Theyâre all in it together. Weâve built it through culture and trusting the process. Ten years ago, when we started this program, we were excited for 10 points at this meet.â
In Division II, Gilbert Campo Verde repeated as boys state champions for the second year in a row, beating Arizona College Prep 116.5 to 88.5. It is the fourth state title in school history. The Coyotes were led by senior Ryker Montgomery (shot put, discus), senior Drew Pollard (javelin), senior Brigham Burnham (hurdles, long jump) and senior Luke Ahles (800, 1,600).
The Waddell Canyon View girls have officially established themselves as a dynasty, winning their third consecutive state championship under coach Muhammad Oliver. Canyon View beat Phoenix North Canyon 131.5 to 107. The Jaguars were led by senior Ryane Ast (100, 400, 800), sophomore Taelyn Janssen (3,200) and senior Rylee Fields (shot put, discus).
Queen Creekâs Nicole Ripperdan (R) and Hamiltonâs Aliyah Morrow finish first and second, respectively, in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
Queen Creekâs Nicole Ripperdan (R) and Hamiltonâs Aliyah Morrow finish first and second, respectively, in the 400m during the AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships at Red Mountain High School in Mesa on May 9, 2026.
In Division V, it came down to the wire for the boys. Glendale Prep just edged out St. Johns 74 to 73, winning in the final stretch of the 4x400-relay to secure the title. It is the first boys state title in school history for Glendale Prep. The Griffins were led by senior Julian Henao (100, 200), senior Zack Rich (400, 800) and senior Logan Hartman (1,600).
For the girls, Phoenix Country Day School ran away with it, beating Scottsdale Christian Academy 81.5-57. It is the first-ever state title in school history for Phoenix Country Day. The Eagles were led by junior Abby Roth (100, 200, 400), sophomore Emerson Butler (1,600, 3,200) and sophomore Jacey-Mae Sellers (pole vault).
Over at Shadow Mountain, where Division III and IV were competing, Flagstaff star junior Yohanes van Meerten showed why heâs one of the best distance runners in state history. The Oregon commit won with ease in the Division III 1,600 with a 4:15.29 and jogged his way to a 9:02.92 in the 3,200.
ALA Queen Creek swept the team championships for boys and girls, a huge sign of the growth of the program under coach Duerk Brewer, who was The Republicâs cross-country coach of the year in 2025.
The Patriots were led by seniors Beckham Goodman (100, 200), Troy Haymore (400, 800) and sophomore Jeremy Smith (1,600) on the boys side, beating Tucson Salpointe Catholic 74-71.
For the girls, junior Tally Call (800, 1,600, 3,200), senior Brailyn Clouse (shot put, discus) and senior Alyson Small (pole vault) led the way, beating Gilbert Mesquite 80.5-59.
In Division IV, Snowflake put on a display of dominance for another year. Snowflake swept both titles to add to its legendary run of titles.
The boys were led by senior decathlete Ryder Hall (110-meter hurdles, long jump, triple jump, high jump), junior Jacob LaDuke (100, 200), senior Conovor Pitts (300-hurdles) and junior Cody Potter (javelin), beating Chandler Valley Christian 112-80. It is the sixth consecutive title and 13th overall for Snowflake, just one from tying the state record held by Phoenix Union and Tucson for most consecutive titles.
The girls were led by seniors Jayci Ballard (100, 300-hurdles, long jump), Hailey Jones (400, 300-hurdles) and Ranell West (discus) and junior Bryn Kupfer (100-hurdles, high jump, javelin), beating Waddell ALA West Foothills 153-102. It is the fourth consecutive title for Snowflake.
