Dumas, Maxwell sisters and more. Top girls to watch at Nike Outdoor Nationals
A week after the NCAA track and field finals in Eugene, the brightest stars in high school track and field are headed there, and the girls’ competition at Nike Outdoor Nationals promises to deliver the most exciting performances of the summer. Hayward Field has always been a place for young athletes to introduce themselves to a national audience, and this year the field is packed with athletes who have already shown they belong among the nation’s best.
The sprint events will feature some of America’s fastest young women, including a pair of sisters who spent the season rewriting the national rankings.
Mia Maxwell comes into the match after putting together another impressive campaign. His season bests of 11.10 in the 100m and 22.62 in the 200m place him among the nation’s elite sprinters. Maxwell has developed a reputation for stepping up when the competition heats up, and Hayward Field sets the perfect stage for another memorable performance.
It’s next to him Maria Maxwell who has been one of the most dominant sprinters in the country this season. His 11.11 in the 100m and national-leading 22.25 in the 200m have made him one of the favorites when he hits the track. Watching the Maxwell sisters compete in the same meet is always exciting, as both athletes bring world-class speed and fierce competitive spirit to every race.
Will be one of the most interesting athletes in Eugene Natalie Dumas. The all-around star enters the Nike Outdoor Nationals ranked second nationally in the 400m hurdles and third in the 800m. Dumas has become known for his willingness to take on tough challenges and is expected to follow up on the demanding 400m and 400m hurdles at under-20 level this weekend. Success will be impressive either way. Trying both speaks to his confidence, fitness and competitive mindset.
Another athlete garnering considerable attention Camryn Daly. While many athletes take years to become a national competitor, Daley has become one of the best in the country as early as eighth grade. His season best 51.58 in the 400m leads the nation, while his 11.08 in the 100m and 22.73 in the 200m would make him a contender in any championship field. Every race he enters feels like a glimpse into the future of American sprinting.
The far-flung events feature an equally impressive collection of talent.
Ellery Lincoln arrives as the top-ranked miler in the nation after running 4:30 this season. His ability to control races and maintain a strong pace from start to finish has made him one of the most respected distance runners in the country. He is also ranked second in the 3,000m, giving him plenty of opportunities to leave Eugene with a national title.
Braylin Combs enjoyed his breakout season. After running a 4:37 mile and winning the Nike Indoor Nationals title, she enters the outdoor championships with momentum and confidence. Championship races often reward athletes who know how to handle the pressure, and Combe has already shown he thrives in those moments.
Blair Bartlett comes to Hayward Field as the national leader in the 3,000m and one of the most successful distance athletes in the field. Her performance at the World Cross Country Championships, where she finished as the top American and 16th overall, demonstrated her ability to compete against elite international competition. Ellie Barada also returns with a championship pedigree. The reigning Nike Outdoor Nationals champion and Nike Indoor Nationals champion has shown time and time again that he knows how to win when the stakes are highest. Athletes with that experience are always dangerous, regardless of ranking or start times.
on the field Jacelyn Massey competes as the nation’s top-ranked discus thrower and third-ranked shot putter. His consistency throughout the season has established him as one of the top throwers in the country and he will be looking to add another major title to his growing list of achievements.
Ava Kitchings continues to show her versatility as both a sprinter and long jumper. As a graduate of the Nike Elite program, he arrives with valuable experience competing on the biggest stages and remains one of the most dynamic athletes in the industry.
