The record-breaking career of Amiel Emerson ended Thursday at the state tournament held at Middle Tennessee State University.
Emerson finished 14th out of a field of 16 runners in the 800-meter race in the state finals.
Emerson’s time of two minutes, 1.25 seconds wasn’t enough to qualify for the final heat as the senior couldn’t keep pace with the top runners in the state of Tennessee.
Emerson had set the Warren County High School record in the 800 at sectionals a week prior, finishing in 1:58.3.
Though Emerson wasn’t quite as fast in Murfreesboro, it may not have mattered. The top-eight runners, who moved on to the finals Friday, all finished with faster times than Emerson’s record.
Coach Jim Duvall thought the field was one of the most competitive at the state meet and praised the career of his top senior runner.
“I think the numbers speak for themselves with Amiel,” said Duvall. “In his three years, he set the school record, then broke his own record five or six times.
“He finished higher than last year, which was great. We wish he would have made it to the finals.”
Coach Duvall credited assistant coach Amy Baird with her preparation of Emerson.
“I think Amy deserves a lot of credit. She helped all our distance runners, especially Amiel, peak at the right time,” said Duvall.
Marquis Carter, a senior from Memphis Central, had the top time in qualifying, finishing in 1:55.36. Senior Andrew Ogle from Powell was right behind at 1:55.93.