Dramatic relay lifts Gators to state runner-up

  • Gatewood’s head track and field coach Jeff Ratliff (yellow shirt) called his boys team’s rise from fifth overall to second statewide — thanks to an outstanding win in the 4X400-meter relay — “competition in its purest form.” CONTRIBUTED
    Gatewood’s head track and field coach Jeff Ratliff (yellow shirt) called his boys team’s rise from fifth overall to second statewide — thanks to an outstanding win in the 4X400-meter relay — “competition in its purest form.” CONTRIBUTED

    The Gatewood boys track and field team turned in one of the most impressive performances at the GIAA Class AA state meet on May 2, overcoming the odds to finish as state runners-up after a dramatic final push in the 4x400-meter relay.

    Heading into the meet at Strong Rock Christian in Locust Grove, the Gators weren’t viewed among the favorites to contend for a top-three finish.

    However, through grit …