Community supports Byhalia track team

Friday, May 5, began as a sad day for the Byhalia High School track team.

Although they had earned their way to the State Class 4A Track Meet, there were no funds for them to go. The students were downhearted but understood the situation.

Their coach and mentor Jamarr Walton, a native of Marshall County, wanted to see them have the opportunity to prove themselves at the state meet. He knew how hard they had worked to get to this level and felt strongly that, as students with this amount of talent, they should have this chance.

He reached out to the community and contacted the Byhalia Area Chamber of Commerce. Sheri Perrette, who was in the office that morning, reached out to various businesses in the area and within two hours, the funds needed had been pledged.

Walton explained to principal Matt Smith the money was available and he and the excited students left for Jackson where they represented Marshall County well.

Corvell Todd won the Class 4A high jump competition. He is ranked in the top five in the state (all classifications). He also placed fourth in the long jump.

The 4x100 team, made up of one girl from the eighth, ninth, 10th and 11th grades and fondly called the “Missis­sippi Fast 4,” was a crowd favorite. Kaylon Parks, Soniya Mixon, Kaniyah Holts and Markayla Walker earned second place in 4A and the silver medal, also ranked in the top 20 fastest girls relay teams in Missis­sippi. The same four also placed fourth in both the 4x200 and the 4x400.

Makayla Blessike was fourth in both the 800 and 1600 meter runs.

The Byhalia athletes thank everyone who made it possible for them to make this trip to the state meet.