The Pulaski County Cougar Track & Field team delivered a strong performance across two meets this weekend, competing at both the Liberty Premier and the Heritage Invitational. The Cougars were highlighted by multiple state qualifying performances and top finishes against highly competitive fields.
At Liberty Premier, senior Tanner Linkous led the way with a time of 2:40.34 in the 1000 meters. Running a controlled and tactical race, Linkous secured a state qualifying mark. Sophomore Jackson Squires also earned his individual state qualification in the 300 meters, clocking an impressive 36.23. Squires’ speed and consistency down the stretch continued his standout indoor season, placing him second fastest in Cougar history behind Cole Boone in the 300 meters.
Meanwhile, at the Heritage Invitational, Pulaski County captured a first place finish in the boys 4x400 meter relay. The team of Gaige Barton, Cade Souder, Ty Stacy, and Zaccarrion Burton outpaced the field to claim the top spot. The boys team finished third overall out of 10 teams, showcasing a strong collective effort. When asked about the Heritage Meet Coach Sullins said, "This young group of athletes that competed at Heritage showed that the hard work they do at practice really does pay off as they had high individual results and placed third as a team."
Several Cougars added runner up finishes to the team’s success. Nina Bucey-Card placed second in the 1600 meters, Zaccarrion Burton earned second in the 500 meters, and Carson Richardson rounded out the podium finishes with a second-place performance in the 1000 meters.
Overall, the Cougars’ performances at the Heritage Invitational and Liberty Premier reflected both individual excellence and the program’s growing team strength as the season continues.