The 2026 AIA Divisional State Track and Field Championships, held May 7-9 at Red Mountain and Shadow Mountain High, delivered a weekend of historic performances and record-breaking moments that will be remembered for years to come.

Leading the charge was Tempe Corona del Sol junior Kelson Hogan, who continued his remarkable season in the javelin. Hogan, a former baseball player, shattered his own official state record with a winning throw of 214 feet, 9 inches to claim the Division I title. That mark now places him at No. 6 in the entire United States for the event.

"To be honest, I wanted 220 (feet)," Hogan admitted. "But my coach told me that might not be possible on the grass. I'm happy with what I had, but I wish it could have been a little farther. It means a lot. Just really grateful."

The girls' side produced its own slice of history in the 400-meter dash, where Queen Creek senior Nicole Ripperdan and Chandler Hamilton junior Aliyah Morrow delivered the fastest race Arizona high school track has ever seen. Ripperdan edged out the victory in 53.54 seconds, with Morrow close behind at 53.64. Before this race, only two girls in Arizona history—Safford's Eureka Hall and Gilbert Highland's Gabby Taylor—had ever broken the 54-second barrier.

Ripperdan, a Utah State commit, now sits at No. 2 all-time in Arizona for the 400, while Morrow moves to No. 3. The performance sent a clear message about the rising level of competition in the state.

"It shows how competitive Arizona can be and really is," Ripperdan said. "Especially in the 400. I think it really represents Arizona. We are, as a whole, getting faster over the years. That's really exciting to think about."

From record-setting throws to history-making sprints, the championships showcased the depth and talent that continues to elevate Arizona track and field on the national stage.