John Thomas

Carlton LaVong is not shy. He’s not quiet and he’s hardly reserved. The Methacton (Pa.) senior is boisterous and fun and inviting. And as soon as he hits the runway he’s on fire. There’s no spotlight that shines on the jumpers alone so he’ll make one.

Three of country’s top milers have accepted invitations to race in the high school mile at the Millrose Games Jan. 29, including Roslyn’s Emily Lipari. Race directors also gave automatic bids to Anthony Kostelac of Ablemarle (Va.) and last year’s runner-up Cory McGee of Pass Christian (Miss.). Lipari ran the fastest mile time in the country last indoor season in 4:47.44.

It may just be a month into the season but John Thomas of Sheepshead Bay has already proved what many should have believed at the start of the season: that he is the preeminent sprinter in New York State.

A preview of the boys NY State Championships this weekend in Ithaca, NY.

He eyed the clock leisurely, his breath barely shaken. Great Neck South’s Terrance Livingston made sure to lean at the finish to squeeze every tick off this time.

Marco Bertolotti spread his arms wide when the crossed he finish line. It was a meek celebration for a spectacular victory. The Port Washington junior could have just as easily been spreading his arms to hug the first person that would have him.

The Armory Athlete of the Week returns for the 2008-2009 season. The latest award will be posted every Wednesday from now until after NSIC in March. Each week a girl and a boy, or relay teams, will be chosen based on the previous weeks performance here at The Armory.  

Amadou Gueye had never run the 55-meter hurdles before. He didn’t know what a good time what. In never raced at the Bishop Loughlin Games before. In fact, the Albany Academy senior never even ran indoor track.