Harlan sophomore Izack Saylor claimed a state title in high jump on Thursday as three of the Dragons traveled to Lexington to compete in the Class A Track and Field State Championship. 

“Being a former jumper myself, high jump is one of the most technical events in track. Two years ago, when I took the coaching job back, I knew that Izack had the ability to be a great field event athlete,” Harlan track coach Trent McKenzie said. “He has completely sold out to our staff’s coaching and has shown to be a very consistent jumper in the state. I believe the next couple of years Izack will continue to grow and have multiple state championships by his name.”

Saylor won the event with a jump of 6’2. He is the first state champion for Harlan since Mackenzie King in shot put and discus in 2018. 

Tanner Daniels was a medalist as well, finishing second in the 1,600-meter run and fourth in the 800-meter run. 

“The work ethic for Tanner Daniels is not questionable. I believe all of Harlan has seen him running downtown,” McKenzie said. “He was a state runner-up in the 1,600, only finishing behind a strong D1 runner. In the 800, he finished fourth in a very competitive top eight.”

Harper Carmical placed 19th in the 1,600-meter run. 

“This is the fourth consecutive year that Harper Carmical has made it to the state track meet,” McKenzie said. “She will continue getting better. I look for her to make big strides next season.”

“I think our showing at the state track meet was impressive. This is the perfect season to end my head coaching tenure. I look forward to assisting whoever takes the position after me,” McKenzie said.