In a season defined by resilience and heart, the Eastmoor Academy boys' track and field team reclaimed its place atop the City League, capturing its first championship since 2022. The victory, however, was about more than just points and medals—it was a tribute to a teammate lost far too soon.
An emotional Coach Jason Lewis dedicated the title to Devon Biggs, a former athlete in the program who tragically passed away in May 2023, just days before the league meet. The 15-year-old freshman was struck and killed by a driver who veered off the road to avoid stopped traffic. "He loved his team," Lewis said, his voice heavy with emotion. "We watched these guys grow, and we know he would have been on this team. They ran the best they have all year. Every day we think of Devon."
The Warriors' journey back to the top was hard-fought. After finishing second in 2023—ending an 11-year championship streak—Eastmoor roared back with a dominant 139-point performance at the May 12-14 meet held at Africentric. They left runner-up Beechcroft (83 points) in the dust, snapping the Bears' one-year reign as champions.
Senior Malachi Awale, who won the 300-meter hurdles (39.69 seconds) and placed second in the 110 hurdles (15.19), summed up the team's motivation. "This means everything. We've been working four long years for this. We came close so many times, and we finally got it," he said. "I just want to remember my friend Devon. We do it all for him. It was a team effort—sprinters, distance, everyone together."
The Warriors' depth was on full display. Donovan Delph soared to victory in the long jump (22 feet, 8.5 inches), Jaydyn Turner dominated the 800 meters (2:00.8), and Braylon Fayne powered through the 3,200 meters (10:32.84). The 1,600-meter relay team of Delph, Turner, Dajon West, and Willie Poindexter sealed the win with a blistering 3:26.95.
On the girls' side, Whetstone continued its dynasty, capturing a fourth consecutive City League title with 111 points. The Braves edged out a fierce Northland squad (107 points) in a dramatic finish, clinching the championship by taking second in the final event—the 1,600-meter relay (4:21.29)—just ahead of Northland's third-place time (4:22.19).
For Eastmoor, this championship is more than hardware. It's a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and the enduring spirit of a young man who continues to inspire every stride they take.