It’s a tie! Ridge View, Westwood girls track teams share state championship

Eighteen events weren’t enough to decide the S.C. High School League’s Class 4A girls track and field championships.

Richland 2 schools Ridge View and Westwood tied with 70 points apiece to share the title Friday at Lower Richland High School. It was RV’s fourth championship and first since 2018, while Westwood claimed its first team state championship in any sport.

The two teams were among the favorites coming in with Westwood edging RV in the Lower State championship last week.

Defending S.C. Gatorade Athlete of the Year Brianna Rodriguez won the 100 and 400 hurdles and was third in the 200 for the Redhawks. Ticora Gaskin won the long jump and was second in 100.

RV’s Dania Staley won the 200 and 400 and was second in the 200. The Blazers’ relay teams won the 4x400 and was second in the 4x100. Westwood was second in the 4x400 and third in the 4x400.

RV’s Nala Tobin was second in the long jump and Alahna Valentine was third in the 400. Westwood’s Raven Johnson was second in the high jump.

Richland Northeast’s Mackenzie Pringle won the triple jump and was third in the 100 hurdles. A.C. Flora’s Madison Gibson was third in the 100.

In the 4A boys, Westwood was the highest local finishing team with an eighth-place finish. The Redhawks won the 4x100 relay and was second in the 4x400. Airport’s Xavier Stone was second in the long jump and A.C. Flora’s Jack O’Cain was second in the pole vault.

The Class 2A results weren’t available at press time.

The championships continue Saturday with the 5A meet at Spring Valley and 3A at Lower Richland. The Class A championships are Monday at Lower Richland.

This story was originally published May 20, 2023 at 7:30 AM.