States is the Super Bowl of our sport. Yes, there are other big races and meets throughout the year but this one decides everything. Winning here cements your name in history and that state title is something you never forget.
This weekend there will be four state team titles up for grabs here at Todd Stadium and a staggering 68 individual state titles on the line as well. Highlighting the action will be countless stars both that we know and some that we never saw coming. That is the best part about our sport and states, it is anyone's competition to win.
Performance List
The biggest storyline headed into the weekend will be Western Branch's Claude Toukene. Touks, as he is known, is arguably the most prolific high school track coach in US history. His athletes have taken down national records, state records, and won a staggering 25 state team titles. This weekend he will be looking for that 26th and 27th title.
His Bruins enter the weekend looking strong than ever after winning their 43rd regional title under Touks. The girls should have little resistance with their stellar depth but the boys will have their hands full. Chasing them for that team title will be T.C. Williams, Lake Braddock, Battlefield, and others.
That 6A title race will certainly come down to the 4x400m relay in what should be a very exciting showdown for this historic coach.
The 5A competition should be just as exciting in the team races. Nansemond River leads the girls competition but Highland Springs, Mills Godwin, and Stone Bridge are going to make the Warriors really work for this one.
Complete MileStates Cheat Sheet
In the 5A guys competition it is one of those competitions that is way too close to call already. L.C. Bird is the favorite on paper and were indoor state champions but Atlee, Highland Springs, Potomac Senior, and Nansemond River all have serious shots at winning this one. The competition will come down to the mile relay Saturday afternoon.
Individually things could be even more exciting with state records on the line in many races, that's right, we could see the fastest performance ever run this weekend in multiple events. Here are some of the biggest matchups and races in all four competitions.