Cheer for Olympian Quincy Wilson at the Arcadia Invitational and Experience the Excitement!
Southern California High School Track and Field Events Draw Experts and Fans Alike
Southern California’s high school track and field scene is set to shine this weekend with the highly anticipated Arcadia Invitational at Arcadia High School. Among the standout competitors is Quincy Wilson, who clinched a gold medal at the age of 16 during the 2024 Olympic Games. Wilson, traveling from Maryland, will participate in the 400 meters and two relay events.
“I’m so fired up,” said Brandon Thomas, head coach of the Servite track team, who is not competing himself but is excited about the upcoming races.
Servite’s 4×100 and 4×400 relay teams face a formidable challenge with Wilson anchoring for Bullis High. These races are expected to energize the crowd, with spectators on the edge of their seats anticipating thrilling finishes.
This sentiment resonates with Thomas, who acknowledged the significance of competing against top-tier athletes: “From a competitive standpoint, they’re excited to compete against the country’s best.” Servite’s 4×100 relay team recently made history by becoming the first in California to break the elusive 40-second barrier, finishing in 39.82 seconds at the Trabuco Hills Invitational.
The Arcadia Invitational presents a perfect backdrop of intense competition and an electrifying atmosphere, crucial for teams gearing up for next month’s section and state championships.
Two athletes from Loyola High School are also looking to leverage the Arcadia meet to further their early-season successes. Sprinter Zion Phelps and 400-meter runner Ejam Yohannes are gaining attention for their strong performances.
Phelps, who transitioned to track after playing defensive back and receiver in football, showcased his speed with a 100-meter time of 10.56 seconds against Sherman Oaks Notre Dame. His new coach, Sharaud Moore, recalled their initial conversations during the fall: “He swore up and down he was the fastest kid in the school. Yeah, put your money where your mouth is.” Phelps backed up his claims with a wind-aided 100-meter time of 10.39 seconds earlier this spring.
“This year has pushed my recruitment out there with my track times,” Phelps noted, emphasizing his commitment to being a multi-sport athlete.
Yohannes, also set to compete against Wilson in the 400, has carved an inspiring path in track. He began competing in the sport as a freshman after his parents immigrated from Eritrea. Initially running the 400 in 52.48 seconds, he improved to 50.75 seconds in his sophomore year and recently clocked a personal best of 46.11 seconds.
Describing his training experience, Yohannes shared, "He comes in and kills me," referring to Coach Moore’s demanding but effective approach. In his last race before Arcadia, he finished in 47.17 seconds at the Red Rock Running Invitational.
Looking ahead to the competition against Wilson, Yohannes expressed excitement and determination: “I’m excited to go out there. It’s great competition. If I don’t believe I can win, nobody else can.”
With the stakes high at the Arcadia Invitational, spectators and athletes alike are bracing for an unforgettable weekend of track and field.
