The Shadow
GREENSBORO, Nc. (VR) – Before most of us had our morning coffee on Saturday, four fearless Cougars were tearing down the track at the Adidas Outdoor Track Nationals, showing the world that Alleghany speed is for real.
Bright and early Saturday morning, the Alleghany girls 4×100 relay team — Ja’Kara Heighter, Hannah Hipes, Cambria Ransom, and Tyaieja Smith — stepped onto the national stage and made history. They didn’t just show up. They showed OUT. With fire in their eyes and purpose in every stride, the girls clocked a strong 52.20 and claimed 59th place in the nation—against some of the fastest high school teams in the country.
Let that sink in: our Cougars went toe-to-toe with the best in the nation—and held their own. From the opening gun to the final kick, this group ran like they belonged in the spotlight—because they did. Their handoffs were clean, their form was fierce, and their drive? Unmatched. This wasn’t just a race. It was a statement. A small-town team with a big-time engine.
Ja’Kara Heighter said that “listening to Fuel by Metallica on the way to the event got me through all of the pre race pressure” We asked Hannah what the atmosphere was like and she said “Things got a little overwhelming,” admitted Hipes. “But we knew what we were getting into. The hardest part was not having our coach there in person to help guide us through everything. Luckily, we had amazing support from all of our parents, and they really helped us figure it all out. Our coach also helped a lot over the phone — she took time out of her day to send us clear instructions on how to improve, and answered all our questions. We’re really thankful for her!”
A group of girls who put in the hours, pushed through the pain, and proved they were built for the big moments. And let’s give credit where it’s due—huge props to the Alleghany coaching staff, who guided these girls every step of the way. Their belief, their training, and their leadership helped turn potential into performance and helped this team do something legendary.
“Coach Bartley pushes us to be the best athlete we can be,” said Tyaieja Smith. “No matter what happens, just keep running and give it your all.”
To Ja’Kara, Hannah, Cambria, and Tyaieja: You didn’t just run. You roared. You’ve made us proud. You inspired every kid watching. And you let the whole country know that Cougars don’t just compete—they conquer.
Congratulations to the ladies and the coaching staff.
