Knights race to the finish line

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Sophomore Joy Prescod outruns the competition in the 100 meter hurdles.

BY LAILA MOHAMED-ALI

After a long series of GMC meets and state qualifiers, the track team made astonishing achievements individually and as a team. At the State Championship, the girls placed second, and the boys placed eighth, with some athletes qualifying for the Meet of Champions.

At the GMC Tournament, Roy Vlaun jumped a 6’6 in high jump, beating the all-time high jump school record. “Coming into this meet I had the confidence in myself knowing I had a chance to place high in this meet, so I just came out there and did what I was supposed to do,” said Vlaun.

For the girls 800-meter race, Victoria Botte placed first. “It felt amazing to become a GMC champion. I was able to defend my title winning indoors and now the outdoors 800. I’m just so happy I came through and got to come back again and win that race,” said Victoria Botte. “It makes me feel good/proud of myself because it shows that all the time and dedication i put towards track is showing!

Daniel McFarland looks ahead as he approaches the finish line.

The NJSIAA Sectionals meet went well, resulting in a great precedent for States. “The team had a strong showing, with a few personal bests and some athletes qualifying for groups,” said Samantha Ciaccia, who placed first in the 1600 meter at Sectionals.

At the NJSIAA State Championship, the girls 4×100 meter relay placed high. This meet qualified some for the Meet of Champions. “We had sprinters, jumpers, and throwers qualify for the Meet of Champions,” said Victoria Afoakwah. “Our 4×1 got 4th and broke the school record again and also qualified for Nationals.”

Natalia Tywanek creates a gap as she speeds in front of her opponents.

The anchor of the 4×100 meter, Danielle Boateng also ran a striking time at the Meet of Champions, breaking the all-time school record for the 100 meter and 200 meter race. “I feel grateful and thankful that I was able to achieve so much,” said Boateng. “I hope that it can stay for some time and the next generation can come and do better.”

Ronald Ciaccia also showcased his hard work at the Meet of Champions. “My 800 qualifies me for New Balance Nationals, and I’m also running the SMR with my teammates as well,” said Ronald Ciaccia, “I was really happy to individually qualify because that was one of my goals going into this season.”

  • Ahil Vistro charges up while approaching the long jump.
  • Samantha Ciaccia perseveres through a long distance race.

Photos by Lors Photography

Posted on June 12, 2026