The Shadow
LYNCHBURG, Va. (VR) – Several Alleghany High School athletes delivered strong performances Saturday at the Virginia Commonwealth Games in Lynchburg, with standout finishes, a school record, and continued momentum post season.
Ty’aieja Smith led the group with a standout run in the girls’ 400-meter dash, clocking a time of 1:01.31. The performance crushed her previous personal best and set a new school record, capping off a race that showcased her speed and determination. The Virginian Review caught up with her and was asked about her experience and she told us “The experience felt great. I love running and working hard for each and every time I succeed.” Her focus now turns to running indoor track in the fall, which she will surely be a standout heading into the season.
Maddox Wickline turned in a strong showing in the boys’ 400 meters, finishing in 49.57 seconds. Wickline placed among the top finishers in his age group, displaying great form and a powerful closing stretch.
Levi Bartley also placed in his age group in the boys’ 800 meters, finishing with a time of 2:24.33.
Evan Bishop followed closely in the same event, clocking a time of 2:09.07. His performance added to Alleghany’s depth in middle-distance races and capped off a strong overall showing by the Cougar runners.
Elin Heck competed in the high jump, clearing 4 feet, 10 inches. Reflecting on her experience, Heck stated, “I usually see the Commonwealth Games as good practice and a way to have fun while competing. I was pretty happy with how I did. Even though I didn’t get a new PR, I still placed first and I’m still jumping the same way I was during season.” When asked what was up next for her she stated “Right now I am preparing for cross country season in the fall.”
Brooklyn Conner placed in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 23.30 seconds.
Rounding out the action was recent graduate James Ross competing in the boys 1500 placing 3rd with a time of 5:17.00.
The Virginia Commonwealth Games is an annual multi-sport event held mostly in July that welcomes athletes of all ages and skill levels. Featuring competitions in over 45 Olympic and Pan American sports—from archery to wrestling—the Games promote the spirit of amateur athletics with the tagline “Inspiring wellness & competition.” The event serves both as a stepping stone for those aiming for the Olympics and as a chance for others to compete for the love of sport. Beyond competition, it emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, physical fitness, and healthy living.
Since starting with 4,400 athletes in 29 sports, the Games have grown to nearly 10,000 athletes competing in 35 sports across more than 40 venues in recent years.
