New Balance Track & Field Center at The Armory, December 22^nd – Hundreds of high school athletes crossed the Hudson River to take part in the New Jersey Spiked Shoe Club Holiday Festival.

Emma Osborne of Summit HS, who took 5^th at last season’s New Balance Outdoor Nationals 100m, won a tight race in the girls 55m (7.2). Ramapo HS’s Lauren Brzozowski, who took 5^th in the 200m at last season’s New Balance Outdoor Nationals, finished strong (7.3), but was unable to reel Osbourne in.

Osbourne’s teammate, Lauren Freeman had a nice victory as well, recording a mark of 35-6.5 in the triple jump.

The girls of Summit HS lead the night’s 4x200m race from start to finish.  “We’re basically like sisters,” said Karina Veloso after anchoring the team. “Running at The Armory is great because the energy is always so amazing.”

Jamique Mitchell of Newark Central HS entered the meet fresh off of a second place 55m finish at this past Saturday’s Bishop Loughlin Games. Despite the quick turn around, Mitchell was able to run away from the boys 55m field in a time of 6.4.

The boys 1600m proved to be one of the meet’s most exciting events as Marc Rienas of North Valley Regional HS and Drake Anzaro of Christian Brothers HS battled to the finish line. Rienas was able to dip just ahead of Anzaro, the two finishing in 4:25.4 and 4:25.6, respectively.

“I’m really excited about running this time so early in the season,” said Rienas. "By the end of my spring track season I hope to break 4:05.”

The boys of Scotch Plains HS celebrated like rock stars after winning the 4x200m (1:32.9) just ahead of Roselle HS (1:34.2).

Andrew Tummino of River Dell HS had a great day in the boys shot put (57.1). The football star took third at last season’s New Balance Nationals and his eyes are set on winning this year’s indoor championships.