Sloan Wasserman and Claudel Chery emerged as standout athletes at the state track championships, each securing gold medals with remarkable performances. Wasserman shattered her previous record in the girls 2,000-meter steeplechase, clocking a top national time of 6:38.36. Similarly, Chery achieved a national-leading time of 4:08.19 in the boys 1,600-meter run. Both athletes not only claimed state titles but also cemented their places in Section 1 history, showcasing the deep talent pool in local high school track and field.

By the Numbers
  • Sloan Wasserman's steeplechase time of 6:38.36 ranks her No. 10 all-time nationally.
  • Claudel Chery's 1,600-meter time of 4:08.19 is the fastest in the country for 2026.
State of Play
  • Local athletes dominated various events, showcasing consistent depth in talent.
  • Multiple personal bests were recorded among competitors, reflecting competitive spirit.
What's Next

As both Wasserman and Chery prepare for collegiate athletics, they may face increased competition at the Division I level. Their achievements could also inspire younger athletes in the region to raise their performance standards, potentially leading to more national contenders in the future.

Bottom Line

The impressive performances by Wasserman and Chery highlight the emerging talent in the local track and field scene, paving the way for future successes. Their dominance at the state level underlines the importance of supporting high school athletics to nurture the next generation of champions.