Shaquem Griffin jumped 48 feet, 4 1/2 inches in the triple jump at the state track meet in Jacksonville.

Above photo by LEON TOMLINSON | SNN

By SNN Staff Writers

Junior Shaquem Griffin broke a Lakewood record when he came in first in state for the triple jump in the Class 2A state track meet on Saturday in Jacksonville.

At the state meet Griffin jumped 48 feet, 4 1/2 inches, his overall best. Since 2001 the record has been 47 feet, 9 inches, said coach Anthony Snead. Last week Griffin beat that with 48 feet 1 ½ inches.

Breaking the record at states was “a great experience,” he said.

“I broke records before; this was different because it’s high school,” he said.

Overall the boys missed first place by seven points.

“It was a fantastic season,” Snead said. “The boys’team proved to be one of the best we’ve ever had at Lakewood.”

Griffin said he felt like he had good competition with his twin brother Shaquill Griffin, who also runs track.

“Without him beside me, there wouldn’t be anyone there to push me,” Shaquem said.

Coach Snead said he gave Shaquem some research tips to help him improve, and Griffin made his own training schedule including hurdles to help his jump.

Next year Snead said he is looking forward to having people from previous seasons return to track. Also all the incoming freshman can be added.

“The word is next year’s team’s gonna be better,” said Snead.