News Summary

Local athletes from Ephrata showcased their exceptional talent at the PIAA Track and Field Championships, with standout performances, including two gold medals captured by Sophia Rivera in shot put and discus. The event not only highlighted individual achievements but also a strong sense of community pride, as various athletes from local schools delivered impressive performances across multiple events. With rising stars making their mark and a local atmosphere buzzing with support, Ephrata’s future in track and field looks bright.

Ephrata Shines Bright at PIAA Track and Field Championships

The excitement was electric in Ephrata this past weekend as local athletes put on a dazzling display at the PIAA Track and Field Championships held at Shippensburg University’s Seth Grove Stadium. Our very own Sophia Rivera led the charge, making headlines as she dominated in both the shot put and discus events, capturing two coveted gold medals and throwing the competition to the sidelines.

A Star is Born in Shot Put

On May 23, 2025, Rivera showcased her strength in the girls class 3A shot put, hurling the heavy ball a whopping 43 feet, 3 inches. This impressive feat not only secured her the gold but also solidified her status as a top contender in the state. She has been a name to watch, and this victory certainly has set the stage for an incredible high school career ahead.

Double Gold Triumph in Discus

The following day, Rivera continued her winning streak by taking to the field once again for the discus event. With a phenomenal throw of 143 feet, 3 inches, she clinched her second gold medal and captured the hearts of her hometown fans, who cheered her on with unbridled enthusiasm. The stands were packed with supporters, and every cheer echoed the pride of Ephrata for their shining star.

Strong Competition and Impressive Performances

While Rivera stole the spotlight, other local athletes also turned in strong performances. Ella Petrosky from McCaskey ran a fast race in the girls class 3A 100-meter dash, taking home the silver medal with a valiant effort. She’s shown tremendous growth this season, making her mark on the track and leaving spectators excited for her future races.

Rising Stars from Local Schools

Meanwhile, Kendall Cooper from Annville-Cleona shone at the District 3 track and field championships earlier this month, finishing in second place in the girls class 2A 100-meter dash. The future looks bright for her as well. Over at Manheim Township, Cole Stevens took fourth in the boys class 3A 1600 meters, proving the depth of talent in the area.

Stepping into the Limelight

Day two of the PIAA championships also featured impressive performances by Nick Keller from Ephrata, who placed fourth in the boys class 3A 400 meters. He has certainly come into his own, making a name for himself on the track. Meanwhile, Cedar Crest’s Kaddel Howard emerged victorious in the girls class 3A 400 meters, showcasing a breathtaking sprint that left spectators in awe. This victory is sure to propel her forward as a star athlete.

Relay Teams and Other Highlights

In relay action, McCaskey’s Alondra Grover contributed her talent to the girls 4×100 meter relay team, which won at the Lancaster-Lebanon Track and Field Championships earlier this month. This collaboration illustrates the strength of teamwork in local athletics.

As the championships progressed, local standouts like Adam Kingston from Manheim Township soared to victory in the boys class 3A 3200 meters, while fellow local athlete David Moran from Annville-Cleona won the boys class 2A 800 meters event, adding to the region’s harvest of medals.

Future of Track and Field

As we reflect on the excitement that these championships have brought to Ephrata, it’s clear that our local athletes are on the rise. The thrill of competition, unyielding hard work, and a community that rallies behind them all contribute to an environment where champions are made. With impressive days behind them, we can only imagine what the future holds for these talented individuals. Here’s to more victories, personal bests, and unforgettable moments in the seasons to come!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Additional Resources