Interview and write-up by Jim Lambert
Heslop throws down historic performance
Mario Heslop burned up the track at Silver Eagle Stadium in Egg Harbor at the NJSIAA Group 4 Championships, and when the smoke cleared the sophomore star at Franklin had produced one of the greatest performances in state history.
Heslop smashed three state sophomore records when he swept the sprints, ran one of the fastest time in state history in the 100-meter dash, and ran one of the quickest 400 splits in state history to lead Franklin to its first state title since 1997.
On Friday, Heslop won the 100 dash in 10.44, No. 6 in state history, and won the 400 in 46.84, tied for No.16 in state history. Then on Saturday, he won the 200 in 21.41, and threw down a jaw-dropping 45.5 anchor carry for the third place 4x400 team that ran 3:13.47 as Franklin edged East Orange for the team title,71-67.
Heslop, who will turn 18 in October, will head into next Saturday's Meet of Champions with a chance to become the first boy in state history to win the 100 and 400 at the same M of C. Heslop owns the fastest times in N.J. this season in both the 100 and 400, and is No. 3 in the 200.