Triple Jump-
2019 State Champion: Riley Ammenhauser (So., Naperville [Neuqua Valley]) 40'11.50"
Key Athletes: Ammenhauser, Gloria Oteng-Bediako (So., Belvidere North), Lovie Annafi (Sr., Chicago Whitney Young), Daryn Davis (Sr., Huntley), McKenna Cinotte (So., Downers Grove North), Alliyah Jones (Sr., Evanston), Sydney Willits (Jr., Glenview [Glenbrook South]), Passion Worsham (Sr., Oak Park-River Forest), Ashley Samuta (Sr., Glen Ellyn [Glenbard West]), Aja Bradshaw (Sr., Plainfield North)
Breakdown: No girl has won four IHSA state triple jump titles, Riley Ammenhauser is halfway home towards achieving that feat. As a top 15 national returner, Ammenhauser displayed both the will of a champion and a clutch gene on her way to title number two last season. Trailing with one attempt to go she tripled out an all-conditions personal best to keep the gold around her neck. Riley has not jumped too far away as several girls are close to the magical 40ft barrier positioning them within reach of the reigning champion. Riley may need to pass 41ft to safely put away the field.
Gloria Oteng-Bediako has one of the nation's top returning performances among Sophomores, she figured things out during the state series showing promise for the future.
Sydney Willits and Daryn Davis cracked the 39ft barriers in their career, both look towards the 40ft barrier as well as a shot at the title.
McKenna Cinotte, Lovie Annafi, and Alliyah Jones all showed improvement once the state series arrive, setting personal bests while achieving all-state honors. Look for them to make things interesting for the competition. If all the phases are working this event could produce so many surprise athletes, we expect someone new to emerge in this event.