Charleston Gazette Relays: Gilmer Leaper Anthony Aviles Takes Down Record in Style

Anthony Aviles of Gilmer County said he came in wanting to set the bar high in his first event at the Gazette Relays, the high jump.

Not only did he set it high, he cleared it, setting a new Class A meet record in the process as the first day went in the books on Friday night at Laidley Field.

As it turns out, his new mark of 6-feet, 8 1/4 inches was not only a personal best, but Aviles even exceeded his own expectations.

“I feel great, that was the first time I’ve cleared anything above 6-5 and I was just feeling good so I went up 2 inches [actually 3 1/4] to the meet record and got it,“ Aviles said. “I’ve been working hard, but it’s a good day — it’s a real good day.“

The new mark bested a jump of 6-8 set by Brent Ransbottom of Chesapeake, Ohio in 2006.

Aviles’ conquest came early in the afternoon on Friday, but he wasn’t the only athlete that quickly made his presence felt.

~~  Ryan Pritt – Daily Mail ~~

An unrecognized embassdor

Great performance Anthony. We are so proud of you representing Gilmer County in the tournament. Keep up the work, state’s coming up.

Way to go Anthony!

At least the little people can make us proud of where we live!

Wish the same could be said of the elites.

Even up to this date the county school system has not recognized his accomplishments from last year state meet record holding jump. 

Now he holds three titles for gilmer county high
State meet 2011 6’5"1/4 jump
High school record 6’8"1/4
Gazette record 6’8"1/4

If it was anyone else in this county they would be running fire trucks and police cars celebrating as they did for golf teams and volleyball teams for just winning state.  Do records count? Sorry Anthony you don’t matter.

You all should be ashamed of yourself using this kid’s accomplishment to promote your bias against the school system and certain citizens of the county.  County escorts are ONLY given to teams that win championships.  I have NEVER heard of this being done for someone who sets a record.

Some of you are so angry that your common sense has taken a vacation.  Telling a kid he doesn’t matter is ridiculous and irresponsible.  You should retract your comments and apologize to the student.

Congra