Licking County Schools Compete at Lakewood Invitational

Annual track and field meet draws athletes from across the region

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:18am

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting athletes in motion during a track and field competition, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives.A cubist interpretation of the dynamic action and energy of a high school track and field invitational.Newark Today

The Lakewood Invitational, an annual high school track and field meet, took place on April 11, 2026, with four Licking County schools joining the host Lakewood Lancers. Athletes from Licking Heights, Heath, Newark Catholic, and Watkins Memorial competed alongside the Lakewood team in a variety of running, jumping, and throwing events.

Why it matters

The Lakewood Invitational is a longstanding tradition that brings together student-athletes from across Licking County to showcase their talents and compete against their peers. These types of community-based sporting events foster school spirit, sportsmanship, and a sense of regional pride.

The details

The Lakewood Invitational featured a range of track and field events, including sprints, hurdles, relays, distance runs, jumps, and throws. Athletes from the participating schools put in strong performances, with standouts like Licking Heights' Sabrina Bauer in the 100-meter hurdles, Heath's Bradlee Higgins in the 400-meter relay, and Lakewood's Nolan Moore in the 300-meter hurdles.

  • The Lakewood Invitational was held on April 11, 2026.

The players

Lakewood Lancers

The host school and organizer of the annual Lakewood Invitational track and field meet.

Licking Heights Hornets

One of the Licking County schools that competed in the Lakewood Invitational.

Heath Bulldogs

One of the Licking County schools that competed in the Lakewood Invitational.

Newark Catholic Green Wave

One of the Licking County schools that competed in the Lakewood Invitational.

Watkins Memorial Warriors

One of the Licking County schools that competed in the Lakewood Invitational.

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The takeaway

The Lakewood Invitational showcased the talent and dedication of student-athletes from across Licking County, fostering a sense of regional community and friendly competition. These types of events play an important role in supporting high school sports and bringing communities together.