To say Dezmin Lyburtus has enjoyed a successful high school athletic career would be an understatement.
DEZMIN LYBURTUS – BELLEFONTAINE
Lyburtus dazzled on the football field as the team’s starting quarterback for three seasons and earned all-Ohio honors as a senior. He will take his football talents to Ferris State in Michigan next year.
He has been just as impressive while competing for the Chiefs’ track and field team.
Competing with the toughest competitors in the state at the Division I level, Lyburtus placed fifth in the long jump at last year’s state meet.
He earned a return trip to Columbus in the long jump, and to go a step further, also qualified in the 110 hurdles.
Lyburtus races in the 110 hurdle semifinals at 5:25 p.m. Friday. He competes in the long jump at noon Saturday.
The top two finishers in each semifinal heat and the next five fastest times advance to Saturday’s finals. The top eight place and stand on the podium.
“I think it will very exciting to be running in two events this year and having the chance to do something very special for myself and the community,” said Lyburtus.
Lyburtus performed at his best during state last season. He jumped a career best 23-2 and finished sixth. He looking to beat that mark and his hurdle time this weekend.
“In the long jump, I just want to beat my career best,” said Lyburtus. “I really think I have the opportunity to do that this week. In the 110 hurdles, I am looking to make finals and beat my season record of 14.32.”