- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Heath Today
By the People, for the People
LCL Athletes Brave Elements at Hank Smith Invitational
Competitors from local schools set personal records despite challenging weather conditions.
Apr. 19, 2026 at 9:04am
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
Licking County League athletes push through the wind and rain to set personal bests at the annual Hank Smith Invitational.Heath TodayDespite strong winds and rain, athletes from several Licking County League (LCL) schools, including Heath, Northridge, Utica, Lakewood, and Licking Valley, competed in the annual Hank Smith Invitational track and field meet on April 18th. Many participants were able to overcome the inclement weather and set new personal bests in their events.
Why it matters
The Hank Smith Invitational is a highly competitive annual track meet that draws top talent from the LCL region. Performing well at this event can be a springboard for athletes to qualify for district, regional, and state competitions later in the season. Persevering through difficult weather conditions demonstrates the dedication and resilience of these young competitors.
The details
Despite the challenging weather, several athletes were able to achieve personal records at the meet. One standout performer was a Licking Valley competitor who felt they were able to "just roll with things" and let the conditions motivate them to new heights.
- The Hank Smith Invitational track and field meet took place on April 18, 2026.
The players
Heath
One of the host schools for the Hank Smith Invitational track and field meet.
Northridge
A school that participated in the Hank Smith Invitational track and field meet.
Utica
A school that participated in the Hank Smith Invitational track and field meet.
Lakewood
A school that participated in the Hank Smith Invitational track and field meet.
Licking Valley
A school that participated in the Hank Smith Invitational track and field meet.
The takeaway
The Hank Smith Invitational showcased the resilience and determination of young athletes from the Licking County League, who were able to overcome challenging weather conditions to set personal records and demonstrate their competitive spirit.
