PIAA TRACK & FIELD: ATHENS' WANCK, BURGESS TURN IN SOLID PERFORMANCES AT STATE MEET (6 PHOTOS) (May 22, 2026)

Valley Sports Report
SHIPPENSBURG — Athens junior Graham Wanck and senior Abby Burgess turned in solid performances at the PIAA Class AAA Track and Field Championships here Friday at Shippensburg University.

Wanck finished 21st in the 1,600-meter run in a time of 4:25.56, moving up three spots halfway through the race. The junior ran in the first heat and was eighth overall in the heat.

“Graham had a very solid first trip to the State meet," said Bronson. " I think he handled everything well, he put himself in the middle of things and ran a good race. 

"He was in a pretty good-sized pack the whole race, which he isn’t used to, but he did a good job of staying out of trouble," noted Bronson. 

"I think the experience he gained today will really help him next year. He had a great season, re-setting his own school record, being our first district champion in the 1,600-meter run.

"I’m really proud of what he accomplished this season,” added Bronson.

Burgess was 23rd overall in the 100-meter dash preliminaries, clocking in with a time of 12.43 seconds. She was fourth of eight in her heat.

The senior ends her high school career as a three-time state qualifier and a state medalist in the 100 as a junior.

“Abby had a really good race today," said Bronson. "I know she was disappointed to not make it into the finals, but I think she did a great job.

"She has had a great senior year and a tremendous high school career," noted Bronson. "When you look back at everything she has accomplished in her four years, it’s pretty amazing. She has a lot to be proud of and has definitely added her name to the list of great Athens female sprinters.  

"I’m really excited to see her move on to next level and see what she accomplishes at Lehigh,” he added.

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PHOTOS BY CHRIS MANNING.

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