LAKEWOOD — Bernard McDondle lifted his head ever so slightly, displaying a face full of concentration, as he peeked down the runway. Then he took off, charging full speed toward the long-jump pit. His jump, at least his second one in the final round May 16, was several inches behind the line.

That cost McDondle precious length, but it didn't matter. He'd already done his damage in the preliminary rounds at the 5A boys state track & field championships at Jefferson County Stadium.