by Jamie Harris
The Paw Paw Pirates track and field program delivered a determined and highly competitive performance at the regional championships held at Keyser High School back on Wednesday, May 13 at Alumni Stadium, highlighted by a historic effort from senior standout Shayla Tanouye and multiple state-qualifying performances across both the boys and girls teams.
Competing against a strong field, the Paw Paw girls finished fourth overall with 64 points, trailing Pendleton County (105), Tucker County (100) and East Hardy (87). On the boys side, Paw Paw battled throughout the meet, gaining valuable experience and individual success against top-tier competition.
Senior Shayla Tanouye once again demonstrated why she is among the premier athletes in the region, capturing four regional championships in a dominant all-around performance.
Tanouye earned first-place finishes in:
- 100-meter hurdles – 15.77 (season best);
- 300-meter hurdles – 48.34;
- High jump – 4-09; and
- Long jump – 17-00.25 (personal best).
Her versatility and consistency across multiple disciplines were unmatched, as she combined technical excellence with composure in high-pressure moments. With each title, Tanouye continues to elevate her standing in program history while solidifying her position as a leading contender entering the state championships.
The Pirates’ success was further reinforced by a strong showing in the field events, particularly in the throws.
Joselyn Smith delivered a powerful performance, qualifying for the state meet in both throwing events:
- Shot put – second place, 31-10 and
- Discus – second place, 103-03.
Smith’s combination of strength and technique allowed her to consistently compete at a high level, earning two podium finishes and establishing herself as a serious competitor heading into state competition.
Senior Alexis Kidwell also secured a state berth with a solid performance:
- Shot put – fourth place, 27-03.
Kidwell added additional depth in the discus, finishing seventh and played a key role in the Pirates’ overall scoring effort.
On the boy’s side, Nathan Dick led Paw Paw’s state qualifiers with a strong showing in the shot put:
- Shot put – third place, 36-05 (state qualifier).
Dick’s performance highlighted both consistency and competitive maturity, positioning him well for the upcoming state meet.
Several Pirates contributed important efforts and personal bests throughout the meet:
Boys Highlights
- RJ Ryan – fourth in the 200 meters (26.28, personal best);
- Connor Kendall – eighth in the long jump (16-07.75, personal best);
- Tomy Santos – fifth in discus (108-02, personal best); and
- Justus Smith – fifth in shot put (35-02).
Girls Highlights
- Sophia Ross – eighth in discus; and
- Sarah Thorne – competed in shot put.
These performances, particularly the personal records, reflect continued growth and development across the roster.
The regional meet showcased the Pirates’ resilience and competitive depth, as they faced larger programs and strong competition across all events. With multiple state qualifiers, Paw Paw will carry both momentum and confidence into the next stage of competition.
Led by Tanouye’s historic four-title performance and supported by a talented group of emerging and established athletes, the Pirates remain well-positioned to make an impact at the state championships.
Paw Paw’s regional showing was defined not only by results, but by consistency, effort, and commitment to excellence, qualities that will continue to guide the program as it advances to the final stage of the season.
Next up is the WV Class A State Track and Field Championships held at Laidley Field in Charleston, this Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23.
