History was made on May 14 as the Robbinsville boys track and field team captured its first-ever NCHSAA Class 1A state championship, dominating the competition at the Marcus T. Johnson Track on the campus of North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro. With a commanding 100 team points, the Black Knights left no doubt about their place atop the podium.

Leading the charge were three state champions: Isiac Collins, Nathan Frederick, and the 3,200-meter relay team. Collins showcased his power in the throws, winning the shot put with a best of 49 feet, 5 inches, while also earning runner-up honors in the discus with a throw of 131-6. Frederick delivered a thrilling victory in the 800-meter run, crossing the line in 1:58.34—less than a second ahead of the field. The 3,200-meter relay squad, consisting of Benjamin Frederick, Austin Bohn, Xamuel Wachacha, and Nathan Frederick, added another title with a time of 8:12.96. The 1,600-meter relay team, featuring Colton McCoy in place of Wachacha, secured a second-place finish to round out the team's stellar relay performances.

The Robbinsville girls team came agonizingly close to a championship of their own, finishing as the 1A runner-up with 66 points—just one point behind Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy's 67. Chloe Adams was a standout for the Black Knights, winning the long jump with a mark of 17 feet and adding second-place finishes in both the triple jump (34-11 ½) and the 200-meter dash (26.05 seconds).

Other top performers from Western North Carolina made their mark as well. Logan Shuler of Andrews soared to a state championship in the high jump, clearing 6 feet, 10 inches. Kaiya Ellis, also of Andrews, dominated the 100-meter hurdles, winning the title in 17.03 seconds.

From breakthrough team titles to individual brilliance, this year's state championships showcased the depth of talent across WNC. Whether you're celebrating a win or inspired to chase your own goals, the right gear can help you perform at your best.