Barefoot High School Athlete Wins Heat at Simplot Games

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Jackson Laird, an 18-year-old high school athlete from Weiser, Idaho, competed in the 46th Annual Simplot Games track and field event in Pocatello, Idaho. When officials told Laird he couldn't wear his spiked shoes due to a 'no needle spike' rule, he opted to run the 60-meter dash barefoot and ended up winning his heat and setting a personal record time of 7.19 seconds.

Why it matters

The Simplot Games is one of the largest and most prestigious high school track and field events in the country, drawing over 2,100 athletes this year. Laird's unexpected barefoot performance highlights the adaptability and athleticism of young competitors, as well as the unique rules and challenges they can face at high-level competitions.

The details

Laird was pulled aside by officials right before his race because he had forgotten the 'no needle spike' rule and showed up with his spiked shoes. With no time to get his flats, officials asked Laird if he wanted to run barefoot, and he agreed. Laird had done some barefoot plyometrics in the past, but this was his first time racing without shoes. He ended up winning his heat and setting a personal best time of 7.19 seconds in the 60-meter dash.

• On Friday, Laird competed in the 60-meter dash at the Simplot Games.
• On Saturday, Laird raced the 60-meter dash finals, again clocking 7.19 seconds.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Laird plans to continue training and competing in track and field events, though it's unclear if he will incorporate more barefoot running into his regimen.