THOMASVILLE – Thomas County Central’s boys and girls track and field teams are under the spotlight this week in Albany, Georgia.

Central is competing in the Region 2-5A track and field meet at Hugh Mills Stadium. The preliminary running events were held on Tuesday with the finals and field events scheduled for Thursday. 

“I’m excited to see who will be the surprise to those who haven’t seen the work these athletes have put in,” Central head coach Mikeal Lovejoy said. “I expect some new records in a couple of events. I know they have to go out and compete, but I believe the hard work will pay off. We will have some who will be competing for the opportunity to be region champions. It will be exciting.”

Central is competing against Lee County, Coffee, Houston County, Veterans and Northside-Warner Robins.

There are multiple standouts on this year’s team. They include junior Zykierra Hightower, who has established a new school record in the 400 meters with a time of 57.06, shattering the previous record of 58.12. She earned the meet’s Female MVP award at the recent Tommy Taylor Invitational, as she won the 200 meters, placed second in the 100 meters, and anchored the first-place 4×400-meter relay team.

The boys 4×400-meter relay team of Dayshawn Delaine, Owen May, Landan Reed and Connor Stephens finished first at the same meet with a time of 3:39.60.