It was a tough day for the boys’ track and field team at Bulloch Academy during the GISA track-and-field Class AAA state championships.
    In contention for a top finish, the Gators’ 4X100-meter relay team just missed the mark on setting a state record but unfortunately dropped the baton during qualifying. Despite the mishap, it was still a successful season for the Gators as the boys’ team finished fifth overall, just a few points shy of a top four finish.
    “I thought the team did a great job,” said BA track-and-field coach Ronnie Hodges. “The guys are already talking about winning state next year. They know we’re going to be bringing back almost everyone.”
    One of the athletes the Gators are so excited about is sophomore Seth Brant. Brant had a breakout performance for BA—winning a state championship in the 110-meter hurdles and the 300-meter hurdles.
    Brant ran a 15.86 in the 110-meter hurdle and a 41.01 in the 300-meter hurdles. Brant said it still feels like a dream.
    “I don’t really think its hit me yet. It’s really exciting that I won, but I’m already excited for next year,” Brant said. “I knew it was going to be a close race and I’ve worked on my form. Form is everything.”
    The 6-foot-2 Brant also finished eighth in the triple jump. He scored a total of 21 points for the Gators, the fourth most points scored in the state meet.
    “The meet was very nerve-wracking. I felt sick getting into the blocks, but it was exciting,” Brant said.
    Along with Brant, BA’s Tyce Lovett and Jack Fortune had a solid day for the Gators. Lovett finished second in state with a 100-23.1