The Ohio high school track and field postseason is bigger than ever before, and the stakes have never been higher. This year marks the first time the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has expanded from three divisions to five—a major shift that promises more medals, more trophies, and more opportunities for athletes across the state.

For decades, since 1971, the postseason featured just three divisions. Now, with five, smaller schools have a real shot at championship glory, and the competition is heating up across every event.

Central Ohio fans have plenty to cheer about. The Hilliard Davidson girls are coming off their first-ever team state championship last season and are poised to defend their title in Division I. If history tells us anything, expect local athletes to make strong runs for podium finishes in both individual events and relays.

The postseason kicks off on May 18 for Central Ohio teams, with the state championships set for June 4-7 at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium. And speaking of the stadium, it now has a new official name: the Jesse Owens Track and Field State Championships—a fitting tribute to one of Ohio's greatest athletes, announced by the OHSAA back in February.

So, what does this expanded format mean for athletes and fans? According to the OHSAA, the Ohio Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches pushed for this change for years, and it finally became a reality in January 2025. The goal was simple: give more athletes the chance to compete for championships, especially those from smaller schools that were often overshadowed in the old three-division system.

Under the new format, Division I is smaller and more elite, while the other four divisions are split as evenly as possible. That means fewer teams in the top tier, but more balanced competition everywhere else.

For Division I, the postseason starts with a "Super Regional" instead of the traditional district meet. This includes an extra preliminary round on May 18 or 19 for sprints and hurdles (100, 110, 300 meters and the 100, 200, 400). If there are more than 24 entries, the 400, 800, and 1,600 relays also get a preliminary round. For distance runners, the 3,200 gets a semifinal if there are more than 32 entries, and the 3,200 relay gets one if there are more than 16 entries.

Whether you're a runner, a thrower, or a jumper, this expanded postseason means more chances to shine. And for fans, it means more drama, more excitement, and more reasons to cheer on your favorite athletes as they race toward the finish line.