On Wednesday March 6th, the lady royals took sixth place at the HCC conference meet to start off their season. Junior Addison Smith thinks that the team “worked well together to break the state record and it came down to the last leg” Smith said. “I was the last leg to make sure we took first to start the season off right.” Smith said.

The four by four hundred relay team ran a new state record of four minutes and five seconds, placing first. The record was a shock to the runners, as well as the team. As they ran it within the first meet of the season.

Junior Cierra Kepner was “so shocked and proud of [her] team when [they] won, all our hard work paid off and I was so grateful we had the opportunity to do it together.” Cierra felt like no one could stop them and they had overcome every obstacle to get to this moment.

Senior Camryn McKinney said, “Starting the season off placing first at the HCC conference meet, definitely set the bar high for the rest of the season, but more importantly made me extremely thankful to be back out on the track competing with my teammates.” explained McKinney. “We have a special group of girls this year, and I am excited to see all this team will accomplish. We push and support one another on and off the track, which makes me beyond proud and grateful to be a part of this program.” Said McKinney.

Junior Maya Etheredge explained, “Winning the 4 by 4 at HCC conference was like a weight lifted off my chest to know all our hard work paid off” explained Etheredge. “Having the state leading time out of all the schools is such an accomplishment and gives me pure joy and makes me so proud of my team for pulling it off.” said Etheredge.

The lady royals started the season off strong and will continue that momentum going forward, as they look to bring home a State Championship in the 4 by 4. Their bond together is a reason they are so successful they trust in one another and they know their potential.