Regional hopes high for Lions, Lady Lions
By David H. Waller
Albany’s track and field athletes are preparing for a major test this weekend as they head into the regional meet in Springtown. Following strong performances at the area level, both the Lions and Lady Lions will be represented in multiple events during the two-day competition, with prelims set for Friday and finals scheduled for Saturday.
For the boys’ team, head coach Rod Britting said nearly every athlete or relay that competed at the area meet advanced to regionals.
“Our sprint relay dropped almost a full second,” Britting said. “We knew we had to get faster to move on, and the guys made it happen. That was a nice surprise.”
Albany’s 800-meter relay team maintained their third-place finish, and while the mile relay had an off day in terms of time, it remains one of the top three in the region. Britting is hopeful they’ll peak at the right moment.
“If we can put it together, we’ve got a chance to make it to state in that event,” he said. “Everything now is about speed and recovery. We’re backing off the volume and focusing on quality.”
In individual events, Jakobi Roberson placed second in the triple jump with a season-best mark, positioning him as a serious contender for a state bid. Breylon Billington claimed first place in the pole vault, clearing 13 feet to lead the field and secure his spot at regionals.
“Jakobi’s right there,” Britting said. “He’s in the conversation, and if he jumps like he did last week, he’s got a shot.”
Jayce Tinkle took third in the 400-meter dash, putting him among the top five or six runners in the region.
As the team turns its attention to Springtown, Britting emphasized a different tone in practice this week.
“We’re not going to run their legs off,” he said. “At this point, it’s about keeping them fresh. There’s not a lot of ground to gain in a few days, so we’re making sure they’re sharp.”
For the Lady Lions, two athletes—Ashlyn Miller and Zayne Lefevre—punched their tickets to regionals after strong showings at area.
“Ashlyn got a great start in the 800 and held her own against two girls who’ve been running 10 to 15 seconds faster all season,” head coach Lauren Peacock said. “She kept them close, and that pushed her.”
Miller will need to shave additional time to be in the mix for Saturday’s finals, but Peacock said her competitive spirit gives her a chance.
“She knows what it’ll take,” she said. “It’s about going out there and giving your best effort.”
Lefevre, who will compete in the 200 meters, made significant gains in her early sprint and now ranks strong in the region.
Peacock echoed Britting’s approach to training this week.
“We’re dialing it down—low reps, quick turnover, lots of rest,” she said. “This part of the season is about quality and confidence.”
With several athletes in contention and others gaining valuable experience, Albany’s program enters the regional meet looking to build on momentum and take one step closer to state.
