The 2026 LHSAA State Outdoor Track & Field Meet, held May 7–9 at LSU's Bernie Moore Track Stadium, was a showcase of grit, speed, and determination. For months, athletes across Louisiana pushed their limits to earn a spot on the state's biggest stage—and 132 area stars from Lafayette Parish and beyond walked away with top-three finishes.
Among the standout performances, the Teurlings Catholic girls' team captured the Class 4A state championship, a moment that will be remembered for years. But the real story is in the individual triumphs: from sprinters who left everything on the track to throwers and jumpers who soared to new heights.
Here's a look at the area athletes who claimed podium spots:
Double and Triple Threats
- Bella Biggerstaff dominated the distance events, winning the 800-meter and 3,200-meter, and taking second in the 1,600-meter.
- Tyler Blissett swept the 800-meter, 1,600-meter, and 3,200-meter for a clean triple gold.
- Kodi Clement blazed to first in the 400-meter and second in the 200-meter.
- Andre Abshire was unstoppable in the hurdles, winning both the 110-meter and 300-meter events.
Field Event Stars
- Branon Mitchell showed versatility with a javelin win and a third-place finish in high jump.
- London Thi threw her way to gold in discus and bronze in shot put.
- Emma Smith leaped to victory in high jump and added a silver in the 300-meter hurdles.
Relay Powerhouses
- Shelby Burgin anchored two relays, taking gold in the 4x200-meter and silver in the 4x400-meter.
- Liberty Greene, Lexi Greene, and Isabella Hargrave each earned silver in both the 4x400-meter and 4x800-meter relays, showcasing team depth.
Whether it was a first-place triumph or a hard-fought third, every athlete who stepped onto the podium at Bernie Moore Track Stadium proved that hard work pays off. For fans and future champions, these results are a testament to the talent brewing in Louisiana's track and field community.
