Girls track sectional titles earned around Indiana

MISHAWAKA, Ind. - The stakes get higher and higher in track and field, with sectionals beginning around Indiana.

Ten local schools competed at Penn High School for a chance to take the first step towards state glory. The Kingsmen, who entered as winners of four of the past five sectional titles, brought home the hardware once again on their home turf.

Elsewhere in the area, Warsaw and Plymouth also captured sectional championships as well.

While the team events were competitive, there are several athletes advancing to Regionals as individuals as well.

Mishawaka sophomore Paishence Johnson took both the 100- and 200-meter dash, and also advanced with the Cavemen 4x100 relay team. Washington's Claire Pittman anchored the Panthers' first-place 4x100 relay team, while also taking the long jump and performing well in a few other events as well.

Adams senior Joselyn Mwenifumbo shined in the 100- and 300-meter hurdles, making up for lost time after an injury derailed her state title hopes last spring.

"That feeling of having the whole city on your back and then not being able to compete how I wanted to [was horrible]," she said. "These last three meets are just my redemption. I mean, this is it. I'm a senior and I'll never be back. I just have this crazy outlook and it's crazy motivation."

Regionals for girls track and field take place on May 22. Athletes from the local sectionals will all compete at Kokomo.