West Orange High School's indoor track and field team is showing the state just how talented it is.
The Mountaineers had some outstanding individual performances, and a another strong outing by their 4x400 team at Monday's N.J. Varsity Classic at The Armory Track and Field Center in New York City.
Junior Jared Mason, ranked fifth nationally in the 800 meters, was third with a school indoor/outdoor record of 1:54.5. Pascack Valley's Ben Malone won in 1:54 and Ramapo’s Bradley Paternostro was second in 1:54.1.
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"It was a real productive day," said West Orange coach Joe Picataggio. "But the real highlight was Jared. That was big time running."
Senior Nia Barnes, whose specialty is in the spring with the javelin, continued her impressive performances in the shot put. Barnes, who last week signed a National Letter of Intent to attend the University of Alabama, placed third in the shot put with a throw of 39-5 ½ . Teaneck's Apresha Hampton won with a 44 5 ½ toss and Immaculate Heart's Theresa Picciallo was second at 43-11.
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The Mountaineers 4x400 team of junior Anfernee LaRue, Mason, senior James Cham and junior Dexter Valley placed second with a 3:27.5. Christian Brothers Academy won in 3:26.1. The Mountaineers' time is the seventh fastest in the state. Cham also placed sixth in the 200 in 22.8.
West Orange will have its full teams in action Saturday in the North Jersey, Section 1 Group IV meets at the John Bennett Indoor Athletic Complex in Toms River. Mason is running much faster than last year when won the section in 2:01.9.
The 4x400 was second last year behind Randolph at the sectional meet. The Mountaineers ran 3:30.81. LaRue and Valley return from that team.
