North 1, Group 2 Indoor Track & Field Sectionals: Golden Knights Boys Cruise, Demarest Girls Claim Gritty Title

What a weekend it was for North Jersey indoor track and field! The NJSIAA North 1, Group 2 sectional championships, held recently, delivered some truly memorable performances. Spectators at Lincoln Park in Jersey City were treated to a showcase of athletic prowess, with two teams in particular really standing out: the Old Tappan boys and the Demarest girls.

Let's talk about the Old Tappan boys first, shall we? They didn't just win; they absolutely dominated. Their victory margin over second-place River Dell was significant, painting a clear picture of their comprehensive strength across the board. It felt like wherever you looked, an Old Tappan athlete was either winning or placing high, racking up those crucial points. Take Braedan Fiume, for instance, a true multi-event star. He was simply phenomenal, capturing titles in the 55-meter hurdles and the high jump, and then anchoring a speedy relay team. It's really something to see that kind of versatility!

But the success wasn't limited to just one or two stars. Andrew Park delivered a powerful performance in the shot put, with teammate Liam Fiume right there supporting him. Finn Sullivan showed incredible endurance and speed, claiming the 800-meter crown and contributing to the winning relay. And Joe Kim soared to a long jump victory. This wasn't a team relying on a single event; this was a well-oiled machine, showcasing depth and talent in sprints, jumps, throws, and middle-distance races. Their systematic approach to earning points was, quite frankly, a masterclass.

Meanwhile, over on the girls' side, the competition for the N1G2 title was a much tighter affair, but the Demarest girls truly rose to the occasion, clinching a gritty championship. It was a nail-biter, a testament to their collective spirit and individual brilliance, fending off strong challenges from Pascack Hills and Ramapo. You could feel the tension and the sheer determination from every athlete in gold and black.

Their victory was fueled by some incredible performances. Maggie Scarpelli displayed remarkable stamina, sweeping both the 1600-meter and 3200-meter races with commanding runs – talk about a powerhouse distance runner! Then there’s Gabby Romano, who demonstrated her versatility and speed, placing high in the 55-meter hurdles and the 400 meters. The field events were just as crucial, with Ava Scarpelli soaring in the high jump and Olivia Romano making her mark in the long jump. Every single point counted, and the Demarest girls truly delivered a complete team effort, proving that sometimes, a balanced attack and unwavering resolve are exactly what it takes to bring home the gold. What a fantastic display of talent and teamwork from both programs!