ESM Girls, C-NS Sweep and Auburn Boys Strike Gold at Section III Indoor Track Championships

SRC Arena at Onondaga Community College pulsed with energy Friday night as Section III crowned its Class AA and AAA indoor track champions, producing a wave of historic firsts and hard-fought sweeps.

East Syracuse Minoa’s girls entered uncharted territory, amassing 130 points to capture the program’s first sectional title. Central Square took second with 89 and Auburn third with 64, but depth carried the Spartans to the milestone victory.

“It was amazing,” ESM coach Chris Staub said. “Our team deserved to win after all the hard work they’ve put in this season. We’re lucky to have the depth because it puts us in a great spot.”

Auburn answered on the boys’ side, dominating Class AA with 160 points. ESM followed with 113 and Whitesboro 79, yet the Maroons’ balance proved decisive.

“I’m really pleased with how everyone performed,” Auburn coach John Oliver said. “Each of our athletes pushed each other to perform at their best. We did really well.”

Owen Gasper fueled Auburn’s surge, sweeping the 3,200 (9:54.79), 1,500 (4:42.01) and 1,000 meters (2:32.95). Atticus Garland claimed the triple jump (42-3.5), Amadi Onyeani ruled the high jump (6-4), and John Clemens topped the weight throw (60 feet). The Maroons also won the 4x400 relay in 3:39.38 and the 4x800 in 8:56.46.

Cicero-North Syracuse swept the Class AAA banners. The Northstar boys edged Baldwinsville 113-110, while the girls pulled away with 151 points, leaving Liverpool (94) and Baldwinsville (75) in their wake.

Sectional standouts now turn to the Section III state qualifier, set for 4:30 p.m. Wednesday back at SRC Arena.