The above image and following information are derived from an article by the LHSAA:

Royal had broken the Louisiana state composite record of 10.20 set in 1980 by Fair Park legend Rod Richardson, known across the state simply as “Rocket” Richardson. For nearly half a century, Richardson’s mark stood untouched through generations of Louisiana sprinters.

“Coming out here, I knew the record was mine,” Royal said afterward. “This year has been all about redemption, so I had it on my mind today.”

Yet even after becoming the fastest high school sprinter in Louisiana history, Royal still believed there was more in the tank.

“It’s expected,” Royal said. “It obviously means a lot, but I wanted to run 10.00 or closer to the 9 range. But God blessed me to be able to run a 10.17, which I’m grateful for.”

The performance became even more impressive considering the conditions. The track had spent much of the previous day underwater. Even Richardson himself acknowledged the difficulty of what Royal accomplished.

“To run that time in those conditions, a wet track, that’s tough,” Richardson said. “I wish nothing but the best for him.”

Royal was not finished.

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