UIL Region 2-6A Girls Meet Preview

Photo by Christine Langford/Milesplit TX

The girls 2024 Region 2-6A 4x400 relay finals on the anchor leg exchange


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Area Championship Results/Qualifiers List

The track and field action in Waco is always one of the best regions to watch. It has a mix of DFW and Houston schools mixed in with some Central Texas flavor. This year, it'll continue it's flair, but a new wrinkle will be added. 

That is the Lancaster Tigers who have been a powerhouse in the UIL 5A ranks and has now moved up to 6A. On the girls side, the defending 2024 UIL 5A team champions are coming in with a more than a bang. As they look to make a move on the UIL 6A team trophy and individual state meet berths, they'll have to wrestle them away from the back-to-back UIL 6A team champions Duncanville and many individual award winners from the region, inclucinding state champions.

You can watch the battle of the old guard vs the new team on the block on TX.MileSplit.com and view our preview of every event below.

Sprints

100 Meter Dash: This Could Be a Battle of the Old Guard Vs the New Kids on the Block

The UIL 6A Girls 100 Meter Dash is shaping up to be a sprint showdown, with Celeste Robinson (Houston Cypress Ranch) clocking a blazing 11.37 to take the top spot at Area 15 & 16. Robinson looked smooth and powerful, setting the tone for the rest of the state. Not far behind, Ahlayna Taylor, just a sophomore from Cypress Woods, lit up the track with an 11.47, showing that the future of Texas sprinting is in good hands. Eguonome Akpobassa (Bridgeland) (11.63) and Janiyah McDonald (Klein Forest) (11.68) round out a stacked top four-all from the same regional area, hinting at a brutal fight for state spots. Breasia Roberts (North Forney) (11.76) and Treasure Simmons, a freshman phenom from The Woodlands (11.82), also made strong impressions.

With that said, the girls from Lancaster should have something to say in things. While they might not have turned in the fastest times from their area meet, it might just be because they had some of the lower wind readings. Lily Pierrot won the UIL 6A - Area 11 & 12 with a 11.82 and her teammate Aniyah Bennett was runner-up behind her in 11.97. 

Lancaster has been crushing it all season long and Robinson has ruled the region for the past two years. With state meet berths in the balance, every hundredth of a second will count.

200 Meter Dash: Robinson and Miller Set the Track on Fire

The UIL 6A Girls 200 Meter Dash is looking like one of the most competitive races heading into Regionals, with two elite sprinters separated by just 0.03 seconds at the top. Celeste Robinson of Houston Cypress Ranch looks to continue her dominant career with a 23.15. She'll have to hold off Saniyah Miller (Lancaster), who blazed a 23.18 of her own and like Robinson, Miller knows a little bit about winning state titles. Both athletes look primed for a showdown that could rewrite the Texas state leaderboard.

Just behind them, Taylor Kerns (Klein Oak) could also secure a trip to state as a strong 23.76 from area will have her in the mix. Treasure Simmons of The Woodlands continues to stun fans with her maturity and speed, crossing in 23.80 at her area meet. Rounding out the top five out of last week's area meets, Eguonome Akpobassa of Bridgeland with a 24.07, proving she's a threat in both the 100 and 200.

With the top talent clustered so tightly and youth leading the charge, the 200m final at Regionals could easily be one of the weekend's most electric moments.


400 Meter Dash: Lancaster Loads Up, but the Field is Coming Fast

The 400 Meter Dash in UIL 6A is shaping up to be a heavyweight battle, and Lancaster has thrown down the gauntlet with a 1-3 punch. Datavia Hunter leads the region, entering  with a commanding 53.83 from the areas, showing poise and power through the final stretch to claim the top Area mark. Just behind her, Kaurie Holleman (Temple) (fourth at last year's state meet) clocked a swift 54.37, followed by Hunter's teammate Milan Lathan, who posted a 54.41 for third. Lancaster's depth in the 400 is scary, and if they carry this momentum at Regionals, a 1-2 sweep on the podium isn't out of the question.

Still, other sub 55-second area meet challengers are knocking. DaNaucia Johnson (Longview) clocked a strong 54.73, while Priscilla Adu-Gyamfi (Houston Cypress Ranch) is just the fifth best qualifier, but with a 54.82 and De'Kayla Simpson (Duncanville), who is the sixth best qualifier in 54.86 are both lurking just outside the top tier.

Simpson went undefeated last spring from March - May, which includes winning here at Region 2-6A as well as the UIL 6A state championship. We can't forget her ability to come up clutch when it counts.

With six athletes under 55 seconds, the Regional finals promise to be a thriller from the gun to the tape.


Distances

800 Meters: Will Taryn Bailey Dominate?

The 800 Meter Run coming out of the UIL 6A Area meets is looking like it could be one of the most tactical and dramatic events at Regionals. Taryn Bailey (DeSoto) has clearly established herself as the front-runner, laying down a strong 2:10.38 to top the charts. Bailey's strength and control in both laps showed she's not just fast-she's smart and experienced, knowing exactly when to strike.

Bailey's experience is from qualifying for the past two UIL 6A state meets with several races 2:10 and under on her resume.

Right behind her, Darasimi Odelowo (The Woodlands) posted an impressive 2:13.53. Odelowo's youth (sophomore) combined with that time is eye-popping; it's rare to see a youngster that composed and fast in the 800m. The last one the region saw was -- Bailey. Just a couple seconds behind, Kenedy Card (Rockwall), another underclassman, this one from the class of 2028, ran a 2:15.23, and showed excellent closing speed that could make her dangerous if the pace slows down at Regionals.

Things really get tight in the middle of the pack with Lily Fawcett (Bridgeland) and Ashtian Chatham (Houston Benjamin Davis) both finishing with identical times of 2:15.88. That kind of dead heat highlights just how competitive this year's field is. Anyone in this top group has a shot at advancing or even winning depending on how the race plays out. This one's shaping up to be a nail-biter.


1600 Meters: Bridgeland Can go 1-2

The 1600 Meter Run out of the UIL 6A Area meets is showing some serious firepower, especially out of the always-strong Region II. Leading the charge is Rowan Saacke (Bridgeland), who clocked an elite 4:48.33, separating herself from the rest of the field by a wide margin. Saacke's time not only leads the Region coming out of Area but also positions her as a potential state title contender if she continues this momentum through the State Championships.

Bridgeland doubled down on distance dominance with Lily Fawcett, who placed second with a solid 4:56.81, giving the team an incredible 1-2 finish in the Area 15 & 16 meet. Fawcett's consistency and ability to grind down the competition in the later laps make her a key name to watch, especially in a tactical race.

Lydia Butler (Klein Oak) rounded out a very strong top three from the same area meet, posting a 4:58.26. Her performance was a strong mix of pace and patience, and she'll likely be in the mix again at Regionals. Meanwhile, Stoya Laydevant (The Woodlands) comes in as the top threat from another region, finishing in 5:01.21. Laydevant's racing style leans strategic, and if the regional race turns into a tactical showdown, she has the tools to shake things up.

This group is deep, and Regionals are bound to produce a thrilling race-and possibly more times under 4:50.

3200 Meters: Another Bridgeland Sweep?

The 3200 Meter Run continues to showcase Bridgeland's absolute dominance in the distance events, with a sensational 1-2 punch from Lily Fawcett and Rowan Saacke. We highlighted this as another possible sweep for Bridgeland, but this would actually be their first if it plays out that way.

Both Fawcett and Saacke have multiple races, although just one on Friday, which is the 3200m. Fawcett could have three races on the weekend and she'll likely want to conserve energy while at the same time ensuring she advances to the state meet. She was runner-up at the state cross country championships in the fall.

Fawcett blazed to the top time in the state after Area, clocking a commanding 10:18.76, a performance that not only earned her the win but also put her firmly in the state title conversation. She ran with poise and control, pulling away in the final laps with a devastating kick.

Hot on her heels was her teammate, Saacke, who finished second with a sharp 10:24.33. Saacke's ability to hang close with Fawcett gives Bridgeland a unique advantage heading into Regionals-they've got two elite runners capable of dictating the pace and dominating the field together. That kind of depth is rare and dangerous for opponents.

Lydia Butler of Klein Oak rounded out the Area 15 & 16 sweep of the top three with a strong 10:59.58, showing her endurance and grit in a race that started fast and never let up. Over in Area 13 & 14, Stoya Laydevant from The Woodlands showed she's in striking distance with an 11:02.43, and Sophia Phillip (Magnolia) will add to the deep field by dropping an 11:06.69.

With Regionals looming, all eyes will be on whether anyone can break up the Bridgeland duo's front-running wall, or if they'll continue to pull away from the rest.

Hurdles

100 Meter Hurdles: Naomi Booker Looks To Come Out Peachy and Advance to State Again

The 100 Meter Hurdles event featured a lightning-fast field, with Naomi (Peach) Booker (Tomball) leading the charge and making a statement with a dominant time of 13.66. Her smooth technique and explosive speed between the barriers earned her the top spot at the UIL 6A Area 15 & 16 meet, setting her up as a clear contender heading into Regionals and possibly back to the state meet where she placed fourth last season.

Close behind was Jayla Cooper (Houston Nimitz), clocking in at 13.92 to claim first place in the Area 13 & 14 meet. Cooper's consistency and focus through each hurdle gave her a solid edge, showing she's ready to push the pace at the next level. Just fractions of a second behind her was Graycen Rabel (The Woodlands), whose 14.06 performance placed her second in the same area and keeps her firmly in state meet qualifying contention.

The Area 15 & 16 region was stacked, with Hannah Ogunmola (Klein Oak) posting a strong 14.17, followed closely by Marlee (Journey) Jones (Klein Cain) at 14.21, and Grace Culver, also from Klein Oak, at 14.28. Their near-identical times suggest an exciting battle for podium spots in the upcoming rounds.

Adding to the intensity, Kelcy Horace (Garland Lakeview Centennial) recorded a 14.23 in Area 09 & 10, and Justice Armstrong (Lancaster) crossed the line at 14.29, proving that there's no shortage of depth across the state. Rounding out the top nine was Kristian Coleman, a promising 2028 talent from Duncanville, who showed poise beyond her years with a 14.30. The road to state is heating up fast, and this hurdle crew is bringing elite speed and fierce competition.

300 Meter Hurdles: 8 Girls Enter with Sub 44-second Area Performances

The 300 Meter Hurdles showcased a thrilling display of endurance, speed, and precision, with Naomi Booker of Tomball once again stealing the spotlight. Already dominant in the 100 hurdles, Booker extended her reign in the longer hurdle race with a commanding time of 41.84, taking first at the UIL 6A Area 15 & 16 meet. Her clean form and aggressive pace over each barrier left no doubt about her top-tier talent and versatility.

Maya Wafford (Houston Cypress Ranch) followed up with a strong 42.90 to finish second in the same area meet. Her performance showed grit and consistency, placing her firmly among the elite in the event. Over in the Area 11 & 12 meet, Aubani Brumsey (Waxahachie) clocked in at 43.20, securing first place in her area and demonstrating that she'll be a serious contender in the rounds ahead.

Close on her heels was Kelcy Horace of (Garland Lakeview Centennial), who ran a sharp 43.33 to win the Area 09 & 10 meet. The race for qualification was tight across the board, with Tori Lewis and Justice Armstrong, both representing Lancaster, recording 43.49 and 43.60 respectively-proof of Lancaster's depth in the hurdles game.

Wrapping up a stacked top eight, Olivia Ruiz (Klein) placed third in Area 15 & 16 with a 43.69, and Tamiah Harrison (Cypress Springs) followed just behind at 43.75. With such tight margins, the 300 hurdles is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and exciting events moving forward.

Relays

Girls 4x100 Relay: It Could Take A National Record Performance To Advance

The Lancaster girls 4x100 meter relay team, already the national record holders with their historic time of 43.85 seconds-the only high school girls team to ever run under 44 seconds-continued to prove their dominance at the UIL 6A Area 11 & 12 meet, winning the event with a blazing 44.72. While slightly off their national record pace, the performance still stands as the fastest time in the nation this season and reaffirms Lancaster's unmatched speed and chemistry on the baton.

Duncanville, who has a 44.99 of their own on the season and it's worth noting, this is the only school/team to ever run sub 45-seconds two consecutive seasons- followed with an impressive 45.19, also at the Area 11 & 12 meet, showing the depth of competition in that region. Their crisp exchanges and powerful anchor leg allowed them to finish ahead of other top programs and position themselves as serious contenders in the upcoming regional rounds.

Klein Oak claimed first at the Area 15 & 16 meet with a strong time of 46.30, edging out traditional sprint powerhouse DeSoto, who ran 46.45 to finish third in their area. Klein Forest, perhaps the only school in the state as consistent as Duncanville over the past several years wasn't far behind either, clocking 46.77 to secure second place behind Klein Oak. With several teams under 47 seconds and pushing the pace, the 4x100 relay is shaping up to be a can't-miss event-though it's clear that all roads to the title still go through the record-breaking Lancaster squad.

Lancaster looks unbeatable, but Duncanville and Klein Forest haven't laid down for anybody over the years....something will have to give!


Girls 4x200 Relay: More All-Time Best Capabilities

At the UIL 6A Area Championships, the Lancaster girls 4x200 meter relay team delivered an absolutely electrifying performance, clocking a jaw-dropping 1:34.12-the third-fastest time in Texas high school history. Known for their legacy of speed, Lancaster showed once again why they are one of the most elite sprint programs in the country. With smooth baton exchanges and explosive legs from start to finish, this performance not only won them the meet but also placed them firmly in the all-time record books.

Hot on their heels, Duncanville blazed to a 1:34.71, marking the sixth-fastest time ever recorded in Texas high school girls' 4x200 meter relay history. Their exceptional execution and closing speed made it clear that they are a force to be reckoned with heading into regionals and beyond. These two powerhouse programs have now etched their names among the legends of Texas track and field.

Further down the rankings, Klein Oak put together a strong race to win Area 15 & 16 with 1:38.26, followed closely by Mesquite Horn at 1:38.44 and Waxahachie with 1:38.67. Magnolia also dipped under 1:39, finishing at 1:38.73.

While Lancaster and Duncanville's historic performances have stolen the headlines, the depth of talent across the state ensures that the 4x200 relay will be one of the most exciting events to watch in Waco.


Girls 4x40 Relay: It Might Take A Sub 3:50 to Make the Finals

The 4x400 meter relay at the UIL 6A Area Championships was a showcase of grit, strategy, and closing speed, with Duncanville taking top honors in a blazing time of 3:43.59. Their performance was a masterclass in consistency and clutch baton passing, giving them the edge in a highly competitive field. With this victory, Duncanville has firmly established themselves as a favorite heading into the next rounds of postseason competition.

Not far behind, Houston Cypress Ranch stormed to a 3:46.09, earning them the Area 15 & 16 title and the second-fastest time in the state among area competitors. Their balanced attack across all four legs demonstrated the depth of their squad and their ability to close hard under pressure. Waxahachie rounded out the top three with a solid 3:47.16, continuing their strong tradition in the relays.

Just behind, Lancaster (3:48.32) and DeSoto (3:49.11) battled it out for position, both finishing within striking distance of the podium. The Woodlands kept the race tight with a strong finish in 3:49.80, followed by Klein Forest at 3:50.47 and Bridgeland at 3:51.28. With so many teams running sub-3:52, the stage is now set for an intense showdown at regionals, where every leg and every exchange will be critical in the race to state.

Don't forget that several teams will have their eyes on the UIL state team championships and the 4x400 relay will be crucial and that is going to make it an even more interesting race.

Throws

Shot Put: Kamarie Hardeman Enters with Top Area Mark

The Shot Put competition at the UIL 6A Area Championships was a tight battle featuring strength, technique, and poise under pressure. Kamarie Hardeman (Waxahachie) emerged as the top thrower with an impressive toss of 40 feet, 9 inches, securing the gold and asserting herself as a key contender heading into regionals. Her powerful release and consistent technique made the difference on meet day.

Finishing just behind Hardeman was Zoey Deal (Garland Naaman Forest) a rising star from the Class of 2027, who threw 40-5.25. Only a sophomore, Deal's performance shows immense potential and hints at a bright future in Texas high school track and field. Jaydon Isham, also from Waxahachie, claimed third with a mark of 39-8.5, giving her team two of the top three finishers and valuable points in the overall team standings.

Rounding out the top five were Haley Baalson (Houston Cypress Ranch), who threw 39-2.75, and Kiyah Rawls (Klein Cain), who finished just behind with a 39-0.5 mark. With all top five athletes clearing 39 feet, the shot put field was incredibly competitive, and these throwers are sure to be among the top contenders as the postseason continues.

Discus: Naila Ugoh Has Top Area Qualifier 

The Girls Discus competition at the 2025 UIL 6A Area Championships featured a remarkable showing of power and precision, led by Naila Ugoh (Klein Cain). The sophomore phenom unleashed a massive throw of 152 feet, 8 inches, dominating the field and establishing herself as a major contender heading into the next rounds of postseason competition. Her throw not only earned her the area gold but also marked one of the top performances in Texas this season.

Following Ugoh was Brooklyn Lawrenson (Forney), whose strong effort of 140-1 secured the second-place finish. Lawrenson's consistency and control in the circle helped her edge out a deep field of throwers. Jaydon Isham of Waxahachie, already a standout in the shot put, continued her successful meet with a third-place throw of 136-3, showcasing her versatility and strength across both throwing events.

In a close fourth-place finish, Symone Thomas - also from Klein Cain - recorded a throw of 136-2, just an inch shy of Isham. The dual placement of Ugoh and Thomas in the top four highlights Klein Cain's dominance in the discus ring. Rounding out the top five qualifying throws was Riley Dube (Conroe Oak Ridge), who posted a respectable mark of 131-3, capping off a highly competitive field where every inch mattered.

Horizontal Jumps

Long Jump: It Could Take 19-high to Advance

The Girls Long Jump at the 2025 UIL 6A Area Championships was highlighted by an incredible leap from Eguonome Akpobassa of Bridgeland, who soared to a mark of 20 feet, 4 inches. Akpobassa's jump not only secured her first place but also showcased her elite athleticism and explosiveness. As a junior, her performance puts her firmly on the radar as one of the best in the state, with even more room to grow heading into the latter stages of the postseason.

Jayla Cooper of Houston Nimitz delivered an impressive jump of 19-7.75, earning second place and reinforcing her reputation as a top-tier competitor in both hurdles and horizontal jumps. Her versatility continues to be a major asset for her team. In third place, Kaurie Holleman of Temple recorded a solid 19-4, continuing her strong showing at the Area meet after also placing in the 400 meters. Her ability to compete at a high level in multiple events makes her one of the meet's breakout performers.

Another standout was Journie Kennedy-Williams, a freshman from Houston Eisenhower, who finished fourth with a jump of 19-2.75. Her poise and performance at such a young age suggest a bright future ahead. Rounding out the top five was Ashley Lister of Duncanville, who reached 19-2. Her consistency and technique helped her secure valuable points for a team known for its deep talent across sprint and field events. Lister has a 20-2.50 season best this year and was runner-up at last year's Region 2-6A meet and fifth at state.


Triple Jump: A 40-footer Jump Might Not Be Safe Enough To Advance

The Triple Jump competition at the 2025 UIL 6A Area Championships was nothing short of spectacular, with two athletes breaking the 40-foot barrier in a tightly contested battle. Kaiden Black of Waxahachie claimed the top spot with an outstanding leap of 40 feet, 5.5 inches, showcasing both strength and technique. As a junior, Black's performance not only earned her first at Area but also placed her among the top triple jumpers in the state heading into the regional rounds.

Finishing just half an inch behind, Jayana Phillips (Waller) landed a mark of 40-5, proving she's a force to be reckoned with. Phillips' ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes meets adds depth to Waller's strong track and field team, and her consistency makes her a real threat as the postseason continues. In third, Eguonome Akpobassa of Bridgeland, who also won the long jump, continued her impressive form by jumping 39-3.25. Her versatility in both horizontal jump events has made her one of the most complete athletes at the meet.

Just behind Akpobassa was Taylor Kerns of Klein Oak, who secured fourth with a leap of 39-2.75. Her near personal-best performance helped cap off a strong showing for Klein Oak's field team. Rounding out the top five was Shieana Hall (The Woodlands College Park), with a solid effort of 38-9.5, earning crucial points and demonstrating the depth of talent present across the board in this year's triple jump competition.

Vertical Jumps

High Jump: As Always, the Region 2-6A Will Be A Thriller

The High Jump competition at the 2025 UIL 6A Area Championships was a showcase of rising talent and fierce competition, with one standout performance and a four-way tie for second place. Leading the field was Allyson Otis (Rockwall), who cleared an impressive 5 feet, 8 inches to take first place at the Area 09 & 10 meet. A senior, Otis demonstrated poise and consistency under pressure, separating herself as a top contender for the upcoming regional championships. Rockwall is no stranger to elite high jumpers and Otis' TX No. 2 ranked 5-10 season best gives her a leg up.

Behind her, a tightly packed group of talented jumpers tied for second with clearances of 5-6. Anastacha McGowen (Conroe High), a junior, set her personal best with a strong performance at the Area 13 & 14 meet. She shared the silver medal honors with three underclassmen: Ava Casson (Copperas Cove), a sophomore, Elliana Young (Wylie East), another promising sophomore, and Jazmine James (Waxahachie), a freshman who turned heads with her remarkable showing. James' 5-6 clearance marks her as one of the top freshmen in the state and a future star to watch.

This year's high jump results revealed not only seasoned talent like Otis but also a new wave of young athletes already reaching elite heights. With so many competitors peaking at the right time, the regional round promises even more thrilling action in the high jump pit.


Pole Vault: The Winning Bar Should Be Over 13-feet

The Pole Vault competition at the 2025 UIL 6A Area Championships was stacked with top-tier talent and highlighted by strong showings from some of the state's best underclass vaulters. Leading the way was Kira Bowman (Royse City), who cleared an outstanding 13 feet, 3 inches to secure the top spot at the Area 09 & 10 meet. A junior, Bowman showcased her excellent technique and poise, setting herself up as a major contender for regional and state titles. She has three consecutive meets over 13-feet including a 13-6 PR to win district.

Right behind her was another junior, Brooklyn Nalley (Rockwall Heath), who vaulted 13-0 to claim second place. Nalley's consistency and competitiveness kept the pressure on throughout the event. In third, Layla Paschall (Forney), just a sophomore, cleared 12-9, proving that her future in the sport is bright and that she can hang with the best in Texas.

Also from Rockwall Heath, Kacie Whitten, a senior, finished fourth with a strong clearance of 12-6, adding to her school's impressive showing in the event. Rounding out the top five was Kherington Andrews (The Woodlands College Park), a freshman phenom who vaulted 12-0. Her top-five finish against older, more experienced competitors hints at a high ceiling for the young vaulter.

The depth of talent in this year's pole vault field was on full display, with the top five athletes all clearing 12 feet or better. As the season progresses into the regional meets, expect this group to continue pushing each other toward even greater heights.