Carmel's Greyhounds Triumph Again at Indiana High School Track Finals

Victory Again: Carmel's Championship Journey

The excitement was palpable in Indianapolis as the Carmel girls track and field team celebrated their second consecutive state championship at the IHSAA Girls Track and Field State Finals. It wasn't just a win; it was a testament to their hard work, determination, and the unbreakable spirit of teamwork.

“For the seniors, it's the last one and really just enjoying the moment,” said senior Sadie Foley, illustrating the emotional culmination of their journey.

With a total of 49.5 points, Carmel led the charge, leaving Bloomington South (35 points) and Whiteland (33 points) trailing in their wake. The atmosphere was electric as the Greyhounds, jubilant and proud, took center stage to hoist their state trophy.

A Record-Breaking Beginning

The Greyhounds set the tone for the day right from the start. They established a new state meet record in the 4x800-meter relay with a time of 8:49.46, surpassing the previous record of 8:51.35 held by Bloomington South. This achievement alone showcased their readiness and determination to dominate the competition.

“Getting the win was definitely exciting and the state record too,” said Larkin Taylor, the anchor runner who played a critical role in their victory.

The Grit of Individual Performances

Individually, the Greyhounds also found strength in athletes like Foley and Taylor, who battled it out in the 1600 meters, finishing second and third respectively. Their collective effort illustrated the power of teamwork and personal ambition combined.

“That was the most exciting moment ever,” Foley expressed, emphasizing the joy her close friend, Taylor, brought to the experience.

Other Highlights of the Day

Mallory Weller: A Force to Reckon With

In a stellar display of endurance, Mallory Weller of Fort Wayne Concordia Lutheran also captured titles in the 1600-meter and 3200-meter runs, further solidifying her status as an outstanding athlete in Indiana's high school sports.

“I think I executed that well,” Weller stated confidently after her double win, indicating her strong mindset going into the competition.

Weller's times of 4:46.34 in the 1600 and 10:18.66 in the 3200 not only represented championship performances but also left the audience in awe of her talent.

Hamilton Southeastern's Glory

Meanwhile, Hamilton Southeastern made their mark as well. Junior Anissa Lammie clinched her first solo state title in the 400-meter dash and powered her team to victory in the 4x400 relay with a time of 3:47.29.

“We all just figured this is our last race. One of the girls on our team is a senior, so it was really special,” Lammie reflected, highlighting the emotional drive behind their success.

Final Standings

Team Scores

• 1. Carmel, 49.5 points
• 2. Bloomington South, 35 points
• 3. Whiteland, 33 points
• 4. Fort Wayne Concordia Lutheran, 29 points
• 5. Hamilton Southeastern, 28 points
• 6. North Central, 22 points
• 7. Bishop Chatard, 21 points
• 8. Merrillville, 20 points

Event Winners

• 100m: Chesterton's Kenedi Bradley, 11.94
• 200m: De'Janay Layne, Evansville North, 24.30
• 400m: Hamilton Southeastern's Anissa Lammie, 54.32
• 800m: Bloomington South's Ellie Barada, 2:05.33
• 1600m: Fort Wayne Concordia Lutheran's Mallory Weller, 4:46.34
• 3200m: Fort Wayne Concordia Lutheran's Mallory Weller, 10:18.66
• 4x800 relay: *Carmel's quartet, 8:49.46*

The IHSAA Girls Track and Field State Finals showcased not only the pinnacle of athletic talent among Indiana's high school girls, but a celebration of spirit, camaraderie, and community. As the championship trophy was lifted, it became clear that this isn't just about the wins — it's about the journey and the memories made along the way.