The 128th Penn Relays begins Thursday at Franklin Field in Philadelphia. Here’s a look at the New Jersey girls long jump participants to watch for:
No New Jersey girl has won the long jump at the Penn Relays since 1996, but there are several contenders who could end that drought this year.
One of the favorites is senior Anya Uche of Union Catholic. Uche won the indoor Meet of Champions title this winter with a leap of 19-4.5, which is the best mark in the state this season.
Another contender is junior Jadeyn Hayes of Cherokee. Hayes won the outdoor Group 4 title last year and has a personal best of 19-2.25.
Other New Jersey girls to watch for include:
* Junior Shayla Lawrence of Cherokee (personal best: 18-6)
* Junior Karina Wirth of Ridgewood (personal best: 18-5.5)
* Senior Justine Voorhees of North Hunterdon (personal best: 18-4.5)
