Gulf Shores, AL. - (GSN) - One of the greatest memories some Alabama student athletes gain is a trip to Gulf Shores while competing in the AHSAA Track & Field Championship. They showed their speed on the track as records fell, but some came into the meet with impressive academics as well.

Hatton High School senior Eva Armstead (pictured above)  was selected in early April as the 2026 Bryant-Jordan Scholarship Foundation’s state recipient of the Ken and Betty Joy Blankenship Student Achievement Award for her innate ability to overcome so many obstacles placed in her life. During the 102nd AHSAA State Outdoor Track and Field Championships her time not only set a new Class 4A state meet state record, but it was also the fastest time girls’ outdoor 400 time recorded in AHSAA state meet history.

The AHSAA State Track & Field Championship takes place over the course of three days across the track and field facilities at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex. It occurs during slower spring days and introduces Alabama high school students to amazing scenery they may have never experienced.

Individual awards are given to athletes shortly after the final event of each discipline. The team award ceremony takes place on the last day of competition, shortly after the conclusion of the final discipline event. To see the 2026 results click HERE.

During the short few days the Gulf Shores Sportsplex takes center-stage. The multifaceted sporting venue has a state-of-the-art high school/collegiate outdoor track, stadium seating, restrooms, parking, and concessions. The Alabama Beaches Sports and Event group have the honor of showing the athletes and their families the hospitality and environment Alabama beaches are known for.

David Holtsford of the AHSAA staff was a contributing author and photographer to this article.