Harlan County High School track and cross county history was made on Wednesday when seniors Peyton Lunsford and Luke Kelly became the first athletes at the school to sign Division I scholarships in the sport as they made it official in ceremonies at the school.
“I’m very proud of both of these kids,” Harlan County coach Ryan Vitiate said. “Without a doubt, they are two of the most decorated track athletes to ever compete at our school. Their resumes speak for themselves, and it’s easy to understand why they’re both signing at the Division I level. What most people outside of our program may not realize is just what wonderful kids they are. There’s no ego. They’re both team-oriented, and they have been a joy to coach. I will miss them dearly next year, but I’m so proud of them.”
Kelly, who is also a football standout, finished third last year in both the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes at the 2A state track meet after winning regional championships in both events.
Lunsford stars in both cross country and track and was a regional champion the past two years in cross country and led HCHS to a second place state finish in 2023 and third-place finish in 2024. She was a regional champion in the 800-meter run in track.