NATCHEZ — A number of Natchez High School track athletes will compete in the MHSAA Class 6A state track meet at Pearl High School today.

“As you know, whenever you make it to state, that means you’re better than most of the people in your division or in the entire Class 6A,” NHS track coach Larry Wesley said.

“I feel good about them. We have everyone coming back next year, too, except for our only senior, Philicia Wimley. Our chances of winning are great, and it’s good to know most of them will be back next year.”

Headlining the boys’ squad is Emmanuel Griffin and Amos James. Griffin will compete in the 400-meter dash, while James will compete in the high jump, 110-meter hurdles, the triple jump and the 300-meter hurdles.

Five boys will compete in the mile relay for NHS: Griffin, Thomas Hawkins, Tony Kaho, Marcus Robertson and Tyler Williams.

For the girls’ squad, Wimley will compete in the high jump fresh off the heels of her getting first place in the high jump in the South State meet.

Shanika Purnell, who won the 800-meter run in South state and placed second in the 600-meter run, will compete in both at the state meet. Marquita Wallace will participate in the 400-meter dash.

Wimley, Wallace, Purnell, Kenya Davis and Rosalyn Doss will all compete in the 4X400-meter relay.

The state track meet begins at 10 a.m. today at Pearl High School.