Watch The UIL State Track and Field Championships Live on MileSplit TX

From Austin, Texas May 1-3, 2024

The 2025 UIL 1A Track and Field State Championships are set to kick off May 1-3 in Austin and it will be as awesome as ever. We saw a couple of state records fall last year and it even ended with one in the boys 4x400 relay.

This season, it is expected to be just as fantastic and we have listed what you'll want to know about the classification.

Read our event-by-event preview below:

Girls 3200m State Meet Preview

The Girls 1A 3200m race will be opening Saturday's running events. This year's race features a competitive field led by Tilden McMullen County teammates Isabella Billingsley (11:30.64) and London Yanity (11:35.42), who enter as the top two seeds. Jayton's Jace Chisum, who finished runner-up last year with an impressive 11:20.79, is also back and looking to improve on her previous finish.

Roby's Lilly Benson, along with several talented freshmen like Camryn Gray (Clyde Eula) and Mattie Broussard (Bellevue), round out a young but promising field. Last year's champion, Taytum Goodman, set a high standard by winning in 11:04.68 before graduating, and while her 10:56.53 meet record remains untouched, the 2025 contenders are aiming to put together a fast, tactical race.

With experience, fresh faces, and fast seed times on the track, the girls 3200m could deliver an exciting and memorable start to the Class 1A championships.

The 2024 UIL 1A Girls 4x100 Meter Relay State Championship was set up to be a thrilling showdown, and the field certainly delivered. Coming off a strong fourth-place finish in 2024, Gordon returns with unfinished business and a determined young squad. With a seed time of 50.71 seconds - and an even faster 50.19 recorded at regionals - Gordon established themselves as the clear favorites. Their team, composed of Abigail Kirkpatrick, Ava Hawkins, Audrey Hawkins, and Gracie Lain, showcased a powerful blend of youth and experience, especially with senior leadership from Ava Hawkins. Close behind were Water Valley, who posted a 50.42 at the Area meet, and Rotan, another rising team clocking 50.64 at regionals, setting up a razor-thin margin between the top contenders.

In 2024, Hart took home the state title with a 50.24 performance, followed by Throckmorton and Milford, with Gordon finishing fourth at 51.06. This year, Gordon's progression was evident, fueled by fast exchanges and strong legs throughout. With last year's winning time and this year's top performances all hovering just above 50 seconds, the 2024 race became a battle not just of speed, but of precision. A set of clean handoffs could very well have be the deciding factor this year between gold and heartbreak. In a year packed with talented sprinters and fierce competition, the UIL 1A girls will leave their mark once again on the track in Austin.

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys 4x100 Meter Relay is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and exciting events at the state meet, with several teams bringing blazing speed and a strong history of success. Strawn comes into the championship as the heavy favorite, boasting the fastest seed time of 43.68 seconds and an even better season-best of 43.24, which they posted at the Region 2 meet. Their lineup of Michael Barcenas, Kaison Nunez, Jackson Brister, and Nic Lynn - all juniors - brings a perfect combination of experience and explosiveness. Strawn looks poised to make a serious run at challenging the 1A state meet record of 42.80, set by Paducah in 2023.

Hot on their heels are Jayton and Iredell. Jayton clocked a 44.04 this season, led by senior sprinter Griff Reel and a strong supporting cast including Bode Ham and Colt Gentry. Iredell, just fractions of a second behind with a 44.08, will be looking for redemption after finishing 8th at last year's state meet. Their veteran team, featuring Cole Heutzenroeder, Jordan Gutierrez, Caleb Garland, and Gavin Vara, has been consistent all season and is more than capable of making a podium push. Nobody lead will be safe with Gutierrez on the anchor leg as his 10.2 capabilities could make for an exciting finish in this race. Jonesboro (44.28) and Lamesa Klondike (44.34) round out the top contenders, with Klondike especially looking dangerous after finishing third at state last year and recording a 43.87 earlier this spring at the Crane Golden Crane Relays.

Hamlin (44.58) and Oglesby (44.67) also enter the state meet with strong seasons behind them. Hamlin's experienced group, led by Kyson Davis and Isaiah Hutchings, will be looking to capitalize on any mistakes from the frontrunners. Oglesby, paced by senior Kyler Fossett, is aiming to improve upon their fifth-place finish from 2024, carrying momentum from their deep and athletic relay squad. Turkey Valley and Coolidge complete the state field, with Turkey Valley's young team hoping to break into the mix.

Looking back at last year's results, Rankin won the 2024 title in 43.77 seconds, with Milford and Lamesa Klondike right behind. This year, the times are even faster across the board, and it will likely take a sub-44 second performance to secure the gold. With so many teams capable of running under 44.5, precision in the handoffs will be just as important as raw speed. One small mistake could make the difference between standing on the podium and missing it entirely. Expect fireworks when these elite small-school sprinters take the track for what could be one of the fastest UIL 1A 4x100 finals in recent memory.

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls 800 Meter Run is set to be one of the most thrilling races of the state meet, featuring a highly competitive field filled with experienced veterans and promising young talents. Leading the pack is Isabella Billingsley of Tilden McMullen County, an 11th grader who enters the meet with the fastest qualifying time of 2:19.50, achieved at the Region 4 Championship. Billingsley's smooth, consistent pacing and strong finishing kick make her a legitimate contender for the gold medal.

However, the runner with the most buzz is Danni Ruiz of Menard. Ruiz, only a sophomore, already has an incredible championship pedigree after winning last year's state title with a blistering 2:12.44 - a time that shattered the 1A state meet record. This season, she has posted a 2:15.64 at the Angelo State Spring Break Invitational, confirming that she is still the runner to beat despite entering with the second-fastest seed time of 2:21.60. If Ruiz can replicate or improve upon her season best, it will be extremely difficult for anyone to match her over the final stretch.

Not to be overlooked is Kinley Cummings of Blackwell, another returning state finalist. Cummings placed fourth at last year's state meet and comes in with a seed time of 2:22.69. Her experience under pressure could give her a vital edge against the younger runners. Haven Hill from Borden County, a senior, will also be aiming to finish her high school career on the podium with her strong 2:26.03 qualifying performance.

Adding to the intrigue are several rising stars, including freshmen Mattie Broussard of Bellevue, Laynee Allgood of Rising Star, and Jada Sanders of Brookeland. All three have posted impressive times around 2:30, and while they may be underdogs against the top seeds, their youth and fearlessness could result in surprising finishes if the race becomes tactical.

Last year's race saw an unforgettable showdown between Ruiz and Taytum Goodman of Earth Springlake, with both runners breaking the previous meet record. This year, while the times might not initially seem quite as fast across the board, the mix of elite experience at the top and emerging talent throughout the field should make for a strategic, hard-fought contest. Expect Ruiz to go out hard, with Billingsley and Cummings trying to keep her within striking distance, while the rest of the field battles for every second and every step in what promises to be a spectacular race.

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys 800 Meter Run is shaping up to be a thrilling event, headlined by one of the brightest young stars in small school track, Sean Stanaland from Jayton. Coming off a state championship win last year as a sophomore with a time of 1:56.85, Stanaland has only gotten faster in 2025. He enters this year's meet with a seed time of 1:56.15, but more impressively, he clocked a blazing 1:54.11 at the District 15 meet earlier this season - one of the fastest 1A times seen in years. With his combination of early speed and late strength, Stanaland will be a heavy favorite to defend his title and show if he can move closer to the all-time 1A record of 1:51.71 set by Jake Merrell in 2018.

Behind Stanaland, the field is wide open with a mix of seasoned seniors and up-and-coming underclassmen. Ryker Haivala from Cumby Miller Grove holds the second-best seed time at 2:00.20 and will be looking to capitalize on his senior season to claim a podium spot. Right on his heels is Caden Sweat of Iredell, another junior, with a qualifying time of 2:00.40. Both runners have shown consistency throughout the year and could push each other in the middle laps to try and close the gap on Stanaland.

Another name to watch closely is Caynden Mynear from White Deer, who posted a sharp 2:01.09 at the Region I meet and owns the second-fastest time in the field this season behind Stanaland. His strength and racing savvy make him a real threat for a silver medal or even to push the leader if the race unfolds tactically. Jose Ventura of Lasara (2:03.65) and Drake Hooten of Leakey (2:05.08) have also shown flashes of brilliance this season, with Ventura especially stepping up at the Area meet with a 2:01.57 performance.

The bottom half of the qualifiers features talented athletes like Kaden Lees of Marathon, Carlos Plata of Ackerly Sands, and sophomore Tye Stipe from Borden County. All have seed times within striking distance of each other, setting up what could be an exciting battle for the final medal spots.

Last year, Stanaland broke away late to secure his first state title. This year, with even more speed in his legs and a clear focus on lowering his personal best, he could make history. Still, with a talented and hungry field behind him, no one can afford to make tactical mistakes in what promises to be one of the most competitive and strategic races of the entire state meet.

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls 100 Meter Hurdles is set to showcase an exciting new wave of talent, headlined by Maddie Francis from Silverton. After watching her older sister, Brenna Francis, claim silver at last year's state meet, Maddie has taken the spotlight in 2025 with a season-best and state-leading time of 14.76 seconds, recorded at the Region I Championships. Her mark isn't just the fastest in the field by a large margin; it would have easily won last year's title and is approaching historic times for 1A girls. Francis enters as the overwhelming favorite and is in prime position to bring a gold medal back to Silverton for the second straight year.

Chasing Francis will be Kaitlyn Collins of Wells, who clocked 16.20 to win Region IV. Collins has been consistent all season, holding the second-best time among the qualifiers, and if Francis were to stumble, Collins could be ready to capitalize. Close behind are several talented hurdlers, including Camren Mallory of Newcastle (16.62) and Kasidy Russell of McLean (16.67). Russell, a senior, will be especially motivated to end her high school career on the podium, and her season-best 16.28 at Area suggests she has the speed to challenge for a top-three finish.

Other names to watch include Alivia Allison of Cross Plains, Emilee Silva of Aspermont, and Addi Jernigan of Shamrock. Silva, a freshman, is particularly intriguing - with a 16.42 clocking at the Region II meet, she has already proven she can handle pressure despite her youth. Meanwhile, Avery Stevens from Zephyr and Baylee Rainey from Irion County round out the field, each hoping to PR on the big stage and potentially crack the top six.

Looking back at the 2024 state finals, last year's winning time was 15.57 by Emily Jackson of Bronte. With Francis already dipping well under that mark this season and favorable conditions expected in Austin, there's a strong chance we could see the fastest 1A girls hurdles final since Alli Scott's record 15.42 in 2023 - or perhaps even better.

With a blend of rising stars and experienced seniors, the 2025 final should be a thrilling race. All eyes, however, will be on Maddie Francis to see if she can dominate the field and leave her own mark in UIL 1A history.

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys 110-Meter Hurdles is shaping up to be a dominant showcase for Gordon High School, with teammates Stryker Reed and Kaden Crowe entering the state meet as the top two seeds. Reed, the defending state champion, has had an outstanding season, lowering his time to a blistering 14.21 seconds at the Region II meet, which places him within striking distance of the 1A state record (14.31 by Gary Farquhar in 2013). Crowe, just behind him, clocked 14.72, solidifying Gordon's dominance in the hurdles this year. Last season, Reed edged out the field with a 14.60 for the title, and Crowe finished seventh as a sophomore, but both have clearly taken a leap forward in 2025.

Challenging the Gordon duo will be Martin Baeza of O'Donnell and Dash Davis of Rankin. Baeza has been steady all season, posting a 15.34 in district and entering Austin as the third seed. Davis, who placed ninth in last year's state final, has improved to a personal best of 15.64 this spring and will be looking to break into the top five. Eric Thorman of Jonesboro, another returning finalist, sits close behind after running 15.72 this year and could factor into the medal conversation if he hits a clean race.

Other contenders rounding out the field include Cole Jurecka of Fayetteville, Kole Gibson of Happy, Rylen Reed of Cross Plains, and Trent Gaston of Saint Jo. With four athletes clustered around the 16-second mark, the battle for spots on the podium will be tight behind the leaders.

Given Reed's explosive improvement and championship experience, the real drama may come from whether he can break the longstanding 1A record. With favorable conditions and a season's worth of momentum, it looks likely that the Gordon junior could etch his name permanently in UIL history.

The stage is set for one of the most electric races of the 2025 UIL State Track and Field Championships, as the 1A Girls 100-Meter Dash brings together a field full of explosive talent. Leading the pack is Kamryn Dyck, the junior from Loop, who enters the state meet as the clear favorite. Dyck, the defending 1A state champion, has been unstoppable all season, highlighted by a jaw-dropping 11.51-second run at the Tahoka Bulldog Relays - one of the fastest times seen in 1A history. She claimed the 2024 title with a 12.48 under tough windy conditions and looks poised not only to repeat but potentially to smash the long-standing 1A record of 12.24 set by Anna Hudson in 2022.

Challenging Dyck will be Chloe Becker of Veribest, a talented sophomore who clocked 12.25 earlier this year at the Irion County Hornet Relays. Becker's strong regional showing and consistency put her firmly in medal contention. Right behind her is McKinlie Williams, a freshman from Bruni, who has turned heads this season with a seed time of 12.58 and will be one to watch in future years as well.

The competition for the final podium spot should be fierce, with Trinity Schlueter of Turkey Valley (12.62) and Catherine Youngblood of Newcastle (12.65) both bringing strong regional performances. Youngblood, notably, ran a wind-aided 12.36 this season, showing she has the speed to surprise if conditions are right. Faith Jackson of White Deer, who finished fifth at state last year as a freshman, also returns with more experience and a season-best of 12.38 under her belt.

Rounding out the field are promising underclassmen and veterans alike: Kimble Shipman of Rocksprings, Sydney Smith of Rochelle (sixth place in 2024), and Laney Horton of Garner. Each has run under 13 seconds this year and could capitalize if any of the favorites falter.

With Dyck looking nearly untouchable at the top, the real excitement could come from a fast chase for silver and bronze - and the possibility of a new 1A record falling if the conditions cooperate. No matter what, the 2025 1A Girls 100 meters promises to be a thrilling sprint to the finish in Austin.

Boys 100-Meters State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys 100-Meter Dash promises to be an intense battle with a field full of speed and determination. Ry Reed from Gordon enters the state finals as not only the reigning and defending state champion, but also the favorite to win again. Having set an impressive 10.49 earlier in the season, showcasing his dominance on the track look for him to be hard to beat.

Reed, who has the fastest qualifying time in the state at 10.62, will look to capitalize on his experience and speed to claim another title. However, Reed's main competition will come from Jordan Gutierrez of Iredell, whose incredible season-best time of 10.22 at Regionals puts him in contention for the gold. Although Gutierrez's mark was wind-aided, his pure speed has earned him the second seed and certainly makes him a strong challenger for the title.

Another runner to watch in the finals is Jeremiah Wakefield of Cherokee, who has run a personal best of 10.51, making him a serious threat. Wakefield's consistency throughout the season, including a 10.51 at the Area Meet, shows he can compete at the highest level. Kyler Fossett from Oglesby, who qualified with a time of 10.58, has also been solid all season, and with his experience, he could push for a podium finish. Rounding out the top contenders are Carter Austin of Garner (11.10) and Margarito Pesina from Spur (11.15), both of whom have the potential to pull off an upset in the right conditions.

While the field is loaded with fast runners, Miles Colunga of Garden City, who ran 10.81 this season, and Noah Trussell from Fannindel (11.22) will be looking to make a statement in the state finals as well. With a talented group of athletes, the 1A Boys 100-Meter Dash will certainly be one of the most exciting events of the 2025 UIL State Track and Field Championships, where speed, strategy, and determination will come together for a thrilling race to the finish line.

Girls 4x200 Meter Relay State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls 4x200-Meter Relay is shaping up to be one of the most competitive races at this year's state meet. Water Valley enters as the top seed with an impressive 1:47.86 qualifying time and an even faster season-best of 1:47.10, thanks to the dynamic efforts of Jayden Gomez, Addy Luna, Kaige Lange, and Janaye Coston. After dominating their region and posting the fastest time in 1A this season, Water Valley looks poised to chase a state title and possibly challenge for a historic mark at Mike A. Myers Stadium.

Close behind is Clyde Eula, clocking a season-best of 1:47.75, just fractions behind Water Valley. Led by a talented mix of youth and experience including Reagan Barr, Calece Patterson, Emma Damron, and Hailie Cauthen, Clyde Eula's squad has shown consistency and big-meet toughness all season long. With a strong start and clean handoffs, they are capable of pulling an upset. Lamesa Klondike, seeded third at 1:49.41, and Gordon, close behind with 1:49.76, also bring deep and balanced squads into the state meet. Gordon, in particular, has momentum after a strong regional showing and is led by the Hawkins sisters, Ava and Audrey, who provide experience and speed.

Beyond the top four, Borden County (1:50.10), Brookeland (1:52.40), Dodd City (1:52.50), Saint Jo (1:53.00), and Jonesboro (1:53.66) round out the field. While they'll enter as underdogs, relay races are notoriously unpredictable - and a smooth exchange or late surge could easily vault any of these teams onto the podium.

With Haven Hill being the only girl to return from the podium last year leaves the door wide open for a new champion to emerge. Water Valley and Clyde Eula seem locked in for a thrilling showdown, but with so many capable teams and the high-pressure environment of the state meet, anything can happen in the blink of an eye. Expect fireworks when these girls hit the track in Austin!

Boys 4x200 Relay State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys 4x200-Meter Relay state championship is set to be one of the most exciting races of the weekend in Austin, with Gordon High School once again leading the pack. Gordon enters the finals as the top seed with a blistering qualifying time of 1:30.47, but their season-best time of 1:29.76 - clocked at the Area 13/14 meet - shows they are more than ready to defend their title after winning last year's championship in 1:29.78.

Gordon's team, composed of Ry Reed, Kaden Crowe, Aiden Shank, and Brayden Walters, has experience, depth, and serious speed. Reed and Crowe were key parts of last year's championship squad, and with new faces stepping up, Gordon looks poised to not only repeat but potentially break the longstanding 1A record of 1:29.41 set by Paducah in 2021.

However, the competition is fierce. Jayton comes in close behind with a seed time of 1:31.31, anchored by senior leader Ayden Salazar and a strong supporting cast of Bode Ham, Colt Gentry, and Lorenzo Vargas. They've been building momentum all season and will be ready to challenge for the title if Gordon falters even slightly.

Lamesa Klondike and Richland Springs are not far behind, posting seed times of 1:31.91 and 1:31.94 respectively. Lamesa Klondike, with Cannon McGee and Jared Quintanilla leading the charge, brings balance and consistency, while Richland Springs - fueled by juniors Ethan Deeds and Rush Norris - has the kind of top-end speed that can create chaos in a tight race.

Other teams to watch include Imperial Buena Vista, the 2024 runner-up, who returns much of last year's squad including standout Jordan Rodriguez. They clocked 1:32.03 at regionals and know what it takes to contend on the big stage. Jonesboro, Cross Plains, Saint Jo, and Spur round out the field, each capable of surprising the top seeds if they execute clean exchanges and capitalize on mistakes.

With seven teams entering the state meet with sub-1:33 seed times, the margin for error is razor-thin. In last year's final, less than a second separated the top two finishers. Expect a similar showdown this year, with Gordon aiming to solidify their dynasty - but plenty of hungry challengers ready to write their own names into the history books.

The Boys 4x200 at the 2025 UIL 1A Championships promises fireworks, photo finishes, and possibly a new record. Buckle up - this will be a race to remember.

Girls 400 Meter State Meet Preview

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown at Mike A. Myers Stadium as the best in Class 1A prepare to clash in the 2025 UIL Girls 400-Meter Dash. At the top of the qualifying list stand two familiar faces: Danni Ruiz of Menard and Trinity Schlueter of Turkey Valley, both fierce competitors who dominated the event a year ago.

Ruiz, the defending state champion, enters the meet with a seed time of 59.95 but has already flashed even greater speed this season, clocking a sizzling 58.51 at the Angelo State Spring Break Invitational - the fastest time among all 1A runners this year. Ruiz's combination of early speed and closing strength makes her the favorite to repeat, and she's proven she knows how to perform on the biggest stage, having won gold last year in 57.87, just shy of the all-time 1A record.

Schlueter, no stranger to the pressure herself, was right behind Ruiz last year, finishing with a personal best of 57.90. Now a senior, she will be eager to flip the script and claim the top step of the podium. With a seed time of 59.86, Schlueter showed dominance in the Region I final and remains Ruiz's biggest threat heading into the championship weekend.

Behind the top two, several rising stars are poised to make noise. Sophomore Hope McLain of Kress has steadily improved this season, qualifying third with a strong 1:01.12. She finished sixth in last year's final as a freshman, and her season-best of 1:00.30 indicates she is ready to challenge for a podium finish.

Veteran sprinter Serena Ward of Martinsville, another senior, holds the fourth-best qualifying time at 1:01.32 and will look to cap off her high school career with a strong performance. Rounding out the field are Kinley Cummings (Blackwell), freshman phenom Emma Bryant (Richland Springs), Reese Redford (Jayton), Jaydah McComack (Bryson), and Jaelynn Miller (Saltillo), all of whom posted times under 1:04 to punch their tickets to Austin.

The battle for third place - and even a surprise upset of the leaders - could come down to who executes their race strategy best. In the 400, every split second matters, from the start out of the blocks to managing the brutal final 100 meters where many races are won or lost.

With Ruiz and Schlueter locked into a rematch and a deep, hungry field behind them, the 2025 UIL 1A Girls 400 promises drama, heart, and possibly even record-chasing fireworks. Stay tuned - history could be made once again in Austin.

Boys 400 Meter State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys 400-Meter Dash at Mike A. Myers Stadium is shaping up to be one of the most competitive events of championship weekend. With multiple returning state finalists and several emerging stars, this year's race is wide open - but all eyes will be on Julian Barton of Booker, the clear frontrunner heading into the meet.

Barton, a senior, comes in with a blistering seed time of 49.37 seconds, the fastest among the qualifiers and the fastest recorded in 1A competition this season. His performance at the Region I meet solidified his position as the man to beat. Barton has steadily built momentum all year, and after not qualifying last year, he'll be determined to leave no doubt and capture the state title in his final high school race.

Challenging Barton will be familiar name Griff Reel of Jayton, last year's state silver medalist. Reel has unfinished business after clocking 49.39 at the 2024 state meet, just a fraction behind the champion. His seed time this season sits at 50.57, but he's already posted a 49.75 earlier this year, proving he's capable of dipping under the 50-second barrier when it matters most. Expect Reel to be aggressive, especially in the backstretch where he made his move last year.

Kaison Nunez of Strawn also looms as a serious threat. The junior clocked 50.59 to earn his place at state, and with a season best of 50.51, he is a few strides away from breaking into the elite sub-50 club. If the leaders falter late, Nunez could capitalize and snag a podium finish or better.

Veteran sprinter Aiden Fisk of Matador Motley County returns after a strong showing in 2024 where he placed eighth. Now with another year of experience and a big drop in his times, Fisk (51.03 seed time) is poised for a major leap forward.

Beyond the top contenders, the rest of the field is filled with dangerous talents like Ben Harrell of May, Kayson Campbell of Oglesby, Matthew Needham of Huckabay, Kalob Runnels of Fannindel, and Lawson Fritsch of Fayetteville. All qualified under 52.10, meaning even the fight for a spot in the top five should be fierce.

Last year's winning time of 49.20 by Rankin's Baret Jackson set a high bar, and while the legendary 1A record of 48.99 from 2021 still stands, the 2025 field has the firepower to push into that rarefied territory. For Barton, Reel, and the rest of the field, the formula is simple: survive the brutal early pace and have enough left for a devastating kick over the final 100 meters.

With multiple returning finalists, hungry underclassmen, and sub-50 dreams, the 2025 Boys 400-Meter Dash could deliver one of the most thrilling finishes of the entire UIL State Track and Field Championships.

Girls 300-Meter Hurdles State Meet Preview

Boys 300-Meter Hurdles State Meet Preview

Girls 200 Meter State Meet Preview

Boys 200 Meter State Meet Preview

Girls 1,600 Meter State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls 1600m looks set for an intense battle at Mike A. Myers Stadium, featuring a mix of returning stars and rising talents. Isabella Billingsley of Tilden McMullen County enters as the clear favorite, boasting a season-best time of 5:16.48, the fastest mark in 1A this year. Billingsley, who finished fourth at the 2024 state meet with a time of 5:33.76, has shown tremendous improvement over the past year and now has her eyes firmly set on capturing her first state title.

Close on her heels are two familiar names: Jace Chisum of Jayton and Lilly Benson of Roby. Chisum, the 2024 silver medalist (5:16.13), returns after a strong regional win, clocking 5:23.57. With her proven ability to perform on the big stage, Chisum will be a serious threat if the race turns tactical. Benson, who took bronze in 2024 (5:21.03) and owns a season-best of 5:21.94, also has the experience and toughness to contend for the top spot, especially in a fast, evenly paced race.

Joining the front pack will be another Tilden McMullen runner, London Yanity, who placed eighth at last year's state meet. Yanity enters with a season-best of 5:25.20 and gives Tilden McMullen County a rare luxury - two legitimate medal contenders in the same event.

Further back, a group led by Shealee Brannon (Claude) and Euphemie Daillet (Sanderson) will be vying for top-five finishes. Both runners have posted season times around 5:38, showing consistency throughout the postseason. Freshmen like Mattie Broussard (Bellevue) and Laynee Allgood (Rising Star) will look to gain valuable state experience and could surprise the field if the pace slows early.

The 2024 edition of the 1600m was historic, as Taytum Goodman (Earth Springlake) broke her own conference record, running a blistering 5:03.60. While none of the 2025 competitors have approached that mark yet, the battle for gold this year is wide open - and should be one of the most competitive 1A mile races in recent memory.

With the top four entrants all within about 10 seconds of each other, race tactics - including how aggressive the opening 800 meters is - could decide the final order. Billingsley looks ready to lead, but veterans like Chisum and Benson know how to close late, setting up a thrilling final lap for the championship.

Boys 1,600 Meter State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys 1600m State Championship promises a thrilling showdown between some of the best small-school distance runners in Texas. Leading the field is Ryker Haivala of Cumby Miller Grove, who comes into Austin with the fastest season best by far - an impressive 4:24.19 posted at the prestigious Texas Distance Festival. After finishing fourth at last year's state meet in 4:33.49, Haivala looks primed to complete his redemption arc with a state title in his senior season. His combination of raw speed and experience on the state stage makes him the favorite.

Challenging Haivala will be Adrian Rosales of Booker, who posted a 4:34.71 at the Amarillo Relays and owns the fastest regional qualifying time at 4:36.05. Rosales has consistently been at the front of races this season and has proven he can close strong, which could make him a major threat if the race becomes tactical. Sebastian Talamantez of Comstock, just a junior, returns after a brilliant silver-medal finish last year (4:31.43) and will look to climb to the top step. While his season best of 4:40.63 isn't as quick as the favorites, Talamantez has shown a knack for rising to the occasion in championship settings.

Another strong contender is Jose Ventura of Lasara, whose 4:38.40 season best suggests he could be in the mix for a medal. Ventura brings senior experience and has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season. Caynden Mynear (White Deer) and Brance Ferguson (Happy) both clocked sub-4:46 times and are strong, consistent runners capable of sneaking onto the podium, especially if the leaders get caught up in a tactical chess match. Ferguson, notably, placed sixth at state last year (4:39.99) and knows the demands of racing at Mike A. Myers Stadium.

Rounding out the field are promising younger talents like freshman Brett Macias (Neches) and sophomore Camden Lummus (Roby), while Hayden King (Clyde Eula) will look to capitalize on his first state meet appearance. Every runner in this field will be chasing the shadow of Brandon Passmann's 1A state record of 4:16.05, set back in 2022 - a mark that seems likely to stand another year unless Haivala decides to go for broke.

Overall, this race sets up as a classic battle: will it be Haivala's early dominance, Rosales' big-race tactics, Talamantez's experience, or a surprise from Ventura or another contender? Either way, fans can expect a fast, exciting 1600 meters with medals up for grabs all the way to the final straightaway.

Girls 4x400 Relay State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls 4x400 Meter Relay State Championship is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and competitive races of the meet. Leading the charge is Gordon, who returns to Austin after finishing second in a historic 2024 final, clocking 4:07.82 in what was then the second-fastest 1A time ever recorded. This year, Gordon's team - featuring senior Ava Hawkins, sophomores Audrey Hawkins and Marley Jackson, and sophomore Gracie Lain - comes in with a seed time of 4:10.61 after winning the Region 2 title. With much of last year's core intact and experience running under pressure, Gordon is hungry to claim the gold after coming so close in 2024.

Right behind them is Clyde Eula, who posted the fastest time of the season with a 4:10.54 at the Area 13/14 meet. Their balanced squad, led by seniors Calece Patterson and Hailie Cauthen alongside talented underclassmen like Reagan Barr and Emma Damron, makes Clyde Eula a strong contender to challenge Gordon for the top spot. Lamesa Klondike isn't far off either, clocking a 4:14.71 to win Region 1, showcasing the depth of competition at this year's championship. With runners like Serenity Cruz and Grace Stevens leading their attack, Klondike could very well play spoiler in the medal race.

Jayton and Borden County round out the next tier of contenders, entering the meet with seed times of 4:16.13 and 4:17.06, respectively. Jayton's group, led by juniors Reese Redford and Remington Long, will aim to keep themselves in the medal hunt, while Borden County's squad - powered by a youthful group including sophomore Taytum White and senior Haven Hill - looks to make a late-season surge.

Other teams qualifying for the big stage include Tilden McMullen County, Brookeland, Perrin-Whitt, and Cross Plains. Tilden McMullen County, in particular, boasts a season-best of 4:16.42 and has steadily improved through the postseason, signaling they could be a surprise threat. Brookeland and Perrin-Whitt will aim for season-best performances, while Cross Plains, although seeded ninth, will look to gain valuable experience on the state's biggest stage.

Last year's 1A final was historic, with Throckmorton shattering the classification record in 4:06.93, while Gordon and Roby also dipped under the old mark with 4:07.82 and 4:07.89, respectively. Although none of this year's qualifiers have touched those incredible times yet, the 2025 field is full of parity, depth, and rising stars, setting the stage for what could be another thrilling finish at Mike A. Myers Stadium.

Boys 4x400 Relay State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys 4x400m Relay State Championship looks to deliver another dramatic finish, as two familiar foes, Gordon and Jayton, headline a loaded field. Gordon, the defending champions, return with nearly the same lineup that set a blistering 3:21.87 to win last year, and break the UIL 1A record. This season, the Longhorns clocked a state-best 3:19.97 at the Region II meet, showing they are not only poised to defend their title but perhaps even further lower their state meet record. With standout juniors Ry Reed, Stryker Reed, Rowe Williams, and Brayden Walters all back, Gordon remains the heavy favorite.

Jayton, last year's runner-up in a near-photo finish, is once again Gordon's primary challenger. Led by a veteran squad of Griff Reel, Bode Ham, Sean Stanaland, and Colt Gentry, Jayton clocked a season-best 3:24.33 and enters Austin hungry for revenge after coming within a few strides of gold last May. With a year's worth of growth and experience, they will not back down easily.

Beyond the top two, the battle for the final podium spot should be fierce. Cross Plains (3:30.91) and Booker (3:31.26) come in virtually dead even on paper, with Booker fueled by the Rosales brothers trio - Adrian, Julian, and Reydn - aiming to end their senior campaigns with hardware. Motley County (3:32.49), Richland Springs (3:33.21), Comstock (3:34.08), and Borden County (3:34.52) round out a tightly packed field, each capable of a big drop if the race gets tactical or conditions are ideal. Comstock, notably, surged late at their Area meet and could be a dark horse for a top-five finish.

While Saint Jo (3:38.66) enters as the underdog, they'll look to ride momentum and a "nothing to lose" attitude against a loaded lineup of powerhouse teams. With Gordon and Jayton separated by fractions of a second at last year's state final - and both having run faster in 2025 - fans can expect another unforgettable anchor leg at Mike A. Myers Stadium.

Girls Discus State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls Discus State Championship promises to be one of the most competitive field events of the meet, headlined by a fierce battle between two seasoned seniors, Milly Hughes of Strawn and Avery Blount of Paducah. Hughes, last year's silver medalist, enters with a top qualifying mark of 128-2, but Blount leads the state with a massive season-best throw of 137-7, launched at the Area 07/08 meet. After finishing fifth at state in 2024, Blount has made enormous strides in her senior campaign and will be chasing not just gold, but possibly even Zoe Burleson's conference record of 156-10 set back in 2019.

Breanna Perez of Claude, just a sophomore, and Schreiner Meredith of Nueces Canyon, a senior, also loom as strong contenders, each having cleared the 118-foot barrier this season. Mercy Ynostrosa of Veribest, with a personal best of 120-6 earlier in the year, is another name to watch; her consistency could be key in a pressure-packed final. Tilden McMullen County's Ainara Jimenez and Borden County's Anslee Buchanan have both broken 115 feet this season and could easily shake up the medal standings if they hit a big mark in Austin.

Meanwhile, Isabella Cason of Henrietta Midway and Maxey Johnson of Saint Jo round out the qualifiers, both capable of sneaking into the top five with season bests near or just over the century mark. With veterans like Hughes and Blount seeking redemption and rising stars like Perez eager to make their names known, the girls' discus final is shaping up to be a thrilling showcase of strength, composure, and championship heart.

Boys Discus State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys Discus competition is shaping up to be a clash of rising stars, with two young talents leading the field. Aden Rhiver, a junior from Leakey, comes in as the top seed with a throw of 163-2, narrowly edging out sophomore Brice Roesler of Richland Springs, who sits just behind at 162-5. Rhiver, who placed eighth last year, has made massive improvements and now looks poised to contend for a gold medal, but he'll have little room for error against the hard-charging Roesler, who has been steadily climbing the rankings throughout the season. Alex Hughes of Strawn, last year's state champion in the shot put and now third seed with a 152-10, brings valuable championship experience that could give him an edge in a tight field.

Nathanial Sansom of Whitharral has also crossed the 150-foot mark this spring and could be a dark horse for a podium finish. Meanwhile, veterans like Kobey Morris of May and Bradyn Kaufman of Apple Springs, both consistently near the 140-foot range, bring plenty of competitive grit to the ring. Colton Bunger from Rankin and Trace Holt of Gorman add depth to a field where a single big throw could completely shake up the standings. Kristopher Gorecki from Miami rounds out the qualifiers and will look to build on his strong regional performance.

While Tanner Hodgkins' 2018 conference record of 171-11 may be out of reach this year, expect plenty of drama as these young throwers unleash their best in pursuit of UIL gold. With the margins between the top throwers razor-thin, this event could come down to who handles the pressure and possibility of swirling winds in Austin the best.

Girls High Jump State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls High Jump promises to be a tightly contested battle, with multiple athletes entering Austin with marks near the top. Karrigan James, a senior from O'Donnell, leads the field with a seed clearance of 5-3, but she'll have fierce competition from Brenna Briles, the sophomore standout from Forestburg, who owns the best mark of the season with an impressive 5-4 jump at her area meet. Briles' ability to rise under pressure could make her the one to beat despite being younger than many of her rivals. Paige Powell of Brookeland and Delila Crain of Gorman, both consistently clearing 5-2 or higher, are very much in the mix and capable of challenging for the top spot.

Adding even more intrigue, Cambree Denham of Fayetteville - despite coming in seeded eighth with a clearance of 4-10 - also boasts a season-best 5-3, suggesting she could be a major surprise factor if she finds her form on meet day. Veterans like Emma Parker of Lenorah Grady, Maddie Francis of Silverton, and Emalyn Bohensky of Bronte, all capable of clearing 5-0, will be aiming to snag a spot on the podium as well. Mylee Van Meter of Rankin rounds out the field, bringing experience and determination.

The 1A conference record of 5-7, set by Albany's Sadie Sifuentes in 2021, will be tough to reach, but with several athletes already soaring near the 5-4 mark, expect a thrilling competition where clean cards and first-attempt clearances could decide the medals. With this much parity at the top, it's anyone's bar to claim in what could be one of the most exciting field events of the 1A meet.

Boys High Jump State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys High Jump looks set for a thrilling showdown with a deep and talented field. Kyler Fossett, a senior from Oglesby, comes in as the top seed after clearing 6-6, making him the favorite on paper. Hot on his heels, however, are Isaiah Whitfield from Waelder and Rance Berney from Martinsville, both senior veterans who have each cleared 6-5 this season and are more than capable of pushing Fossett for the title. Right behind them is Stryker Reed of Gordon, who cleared 6-4 and has shown steady improvement all spring.

Not far back in the pack are a trio of athletes - Jacoby Brown of Coolidge, Colt Gentry of Jayton, and Lee Yeley of Saint Jo - each having cleared 6-2 and hoping to sneak onto the podium if the leaders stumble. Daniel Rodriguez of Whitharral (6-1) and Diego Hernandez of Loop (6-0) round out a competitive field where every clearance could shift the standings dramatically.

The conference record of 6-10, set in 2022 by Trey Phillips of Water Valley, remains the high-water mark, but with multiple jumpers capable of reaching mid-6 foot heights, this competition could push into rarefied air if the conditions are right. After a tightly contested 2024 state meet where the winning jump was 6-6, expect another nerve-wracking battle where every attempt matters. With so much senior talent in the field, this year's 1A Boys High Jump could be one of the most memorable yet.

Girls Long Jump State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls Long Jump State Championship is shaping up to be a thrilling showdown with several athletes poised to make history. Kamryn Dyck, a junior from Loop, leads the field with a remarkable mark of 18-8, far surpassing the 1A conference record of 17-4.75 set by Claudia Escamilla of Morgan in 2013. Dyck, who finished second at last year's state meet with a jump of 16-4.75, looks primed to capture her first title and potentially rewrite the record books. Hot on her heels are Faith Jackson of White Deer and Janaye Coston of Water Valley, both posting impressive bests of 17-7 this season, making them serious threats to Dyck's title hopes.

McKinzi McManus of Wheeler Kelton, with a season-best of 17-2.25, and Talyn Lewis from Rotan at 17-0, are also contenders who could find themselves on the podium if they perform at their peak. Rounding out the strong field are Mina Tinajero of Moulton, Jaycee Rigsby of Milford, Lakendra Hatton of Coolidge, and Kirstan King of Zephyr, all consistently hitting marks over 16 feet. After a 2024 state meet where the winning jump was 17-2.5 by Brenna Francis of Silverton, the stage is set for a dramatic competition that could see multiple athletes challenge and even surpass the standing record at Mike A. Myers Stadium this weekend.

Boys Long Jump State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys Long Jump State Meet promises to be one of the most exciting competitions of the weekend, with several athletes poised to threaten the long-standing conference record of 22-8.25, set by Creed Goode of Cross Plains in 2018. Leading the field is Kalob Runnels of Fannindel, who enters with an eye-popping mark of 23-4.25, well over a foot beyond the conference record and establishing him as the clear favorite. Not far behind, however, is Jabraylon Brown of Coolidge, the 2024 state runner-up, who returns stronger than ever with a season-best of 23-1.5, setting up what could be a thrilling duel for gold.

Also in the mix is Damon Byrd of Saint Jo, a rising sophomore who impressed last year with a fourth-place finish and now boasts a season-best of 22-11. Matthew Bolen of Loraine (22-6.75) and Jack Schley of Fayetteville (22-0.75) have both broken the 22-foot barrier this spring, signaling a deep and competitive field. Returning state finalists Brent Robinson of Whitharral and Kyler Fossett of Oglesby, along with freshman sensation Cross Stambaugh of Shamrock, round out a loaded lineup where anyone capable of finding their rhythm early could find themselves on the podium. With last year's winning jump only reaching 21-10.75 by Tyler Miller of Coolidge, expect the competition at Mike A. Myers Stadium this year to reach new heights-and distances.

Girls Pole Vault State Meet Preview 

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls Pole Vault State Championship is set to feature an exciting mix of veteran experience and emerging young talent. Ronni McClain of Zephyr, the defending champion who cleared 10-6 to win in 2024, returns as the favorite with the top seed mark once again at 10-6. McClain will be aiming even higher this year, with the 2013 conference record of 11-6 set by Celsey Randolph of Water Valley still standing as the gold standard. Freshman sensation Emily Landeros from Sanderson has cleared 10-0 and could pose a serious threat, while Ella Braden of Garden City enters at 9-9, looking to improve on last year's 9-00 clearance that earned her sixth place. Veterans Quin Billingsley (McLean) and Baylee Gray (Woodson) are also firmly in the mix with 9-3 marks, ready to capitalize on any slip-ups at the top. Meanwhile, experienced vaulters like Hayley Connell (Ackerly Sands) and rising underclassmen Jentry Bressler (Happy) and Cambree Denham (Fayetteville) add further depth to the field. With several competitors clearing 9 feet or better last season, this year's competition could be the most competitive in recent memory-and perhaps the year someone finally challenges that elusive conference record.

Boys Pole Vault State Meet Preview

Girls Shot Put State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Girls Shot Put competition promises to be highly competitive, with several returning top performers aiming to claim the gold. Leading the field is Callie Hernandez of Roby, who comes in as the top seed with a throw of 39-5.5, building on her runner-up finish last year where she threw 41-2.5. Hernandez will be looking to complete her climb to the top after narrowly missing gold in 2024. Hailo Moon from McLean, seeded second with a mark of 37-6, is another strong contender, having placed fourth at last year's state meet. Avery Blount of Paducah also returns with a strong qualifying mark of 37-1.75, showcasing the depth of this year's field.

Other athletes to watch include Schreiner Meredith from Barksdale Nueces Canyon (35-1.25) and Milly Hughes of Strawn (34-9.75), both capable of big performances under pressure. Kailynn Prewit from Rankin and Audrey Swinford from Moulton round out a solid group, all throwing over 33 feet this season. The 1A conference record of 44-1.5, set by Tricia Williams of Lometa in 2014, looks safe for another year, but the battle for the podium will be intense, with several girls closely packed within just a few feet of each other. Expect a fierce competition where small improvements could determine the medalists at Mike A. Myers Stadium.

Boys Shot Put State Meet Preview

The 2025 UIL 1A Boys Shot Put competition looks set for a thrilling showdown, with a strong field of contenders vying for the top spot. Leading the way is Aden Rhiver of Leakey, who enters as the top seed with a throw of 51-9, the only athlete in the field to eclipse the 50-foot mark this season. Close behind him is Brice Roesler of Richland Springs (48-11) and Mason Brannan of Aspermont (48-10.75), both just inches apart and capable of pushing for the title. Dash Davis of Rankin (48-8.25) and Hunter Bolton of O'Donnell (47-6) also loom as serious threats, making the podium race extremely tight. Veteran throwers like Kayle Rogers of Nazareth and Darren Mackey of Paducah add to the depth of the competition.

While the athletes are throwing impressive distances, the 1A conference record of 57-7.75, set by Joseph Bond of Cherokee in 2023, appears safe for now. However, with Rhiver approaching the 52-foot range, any major improvement could put him in striking distance. Last year's champion, Aden Burns of Robert Lee, won with a mark of 50-2.25, setting a high bar that this year's field will look to surpass. Expect an intense battle inside the ring at Mike A. Myers Stadium, where consistency and composure will be just as important as raw power.

Girls Triple Jump State Meet Preview

Boys Triple Jump State Meet Preview

We saw a state record fall last year in the boys triple jump from Khari Woodson (Slidell) who was just a junior last year. However, he isn't back at the state meet this year.