By Justin Dargahi, Times Correspondent
Saturday, March 5, 2011
TAMPA — The Plant girls track team produced a thrilling comeback victory, while the Hillsborough boys dominated at the 41st annual Nash Higgins Relays at Leto High on Saturday.
The Plant girls beat Wharton 59-58. The Panthers trailed going into the final event but earned second place in the 4x400 relay to win the trophy.
Plant also placed first in four events (long jump, triple jump, 4x800 and long-distance medley). The Panthers were most impressive in the 4x800 as they finished in 9 minutes, 54.53 seconds, almost a full nine seconds in front of the field.
The Wildcats finished in the top three in six of the 10 events, including wins in the shot put and discus.
Steinbrenner also had a strong showing and finished third with 52 points.
The boys' side was less competitive as Hillsborough scored 54 points, while Plant and Alonso each finished 19 back in a second-place tie. Robinson was next with 33 points.
Even though the Terriers only won two events (long jump and triple jump), they placed in the top three of four others (high jump, 110 hurdles, long-distance medley and 4x400).
Both Alonso (high jump and 4x400) and Plant (4x100 and long-distance medley) took first place in two events.