Westmont senior Kyla Babb usually evaluates her track and field races by the clock.

“I’d rather get last place and a (personal record) than win a race with a time where no one was pushing me,” Babb said.

If she reaches the Class 1A state championships in 2026, Babb will return with increased training and confidence -- and a little something extra.

“Now I’m probably going to wear a watch on my wrist so I have confirmation what my laps are,” Babb said.

While she and the crowd became confused as lap counts were announced incorrectly during the eight-lap, 3,200-meter state finals May 24, Babb finished an all-state second in an outdoor-best 10:32.52, followed by third in the 1,600 in 4:56.45.

“I think I did really good. I’ve never been top three at state in track before, let alone twice,”

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