Suffolk’s Kori Carter and Syaria Richardson both advanced to the finals in their respective events at the USATF Junior Outdoor Nationals Meet. Nansemond River High School alum Brandee’ Johnson, a freshman at the University of Florida, also advanced to the finals.

Johnson and Carter both advanced in the 100-meter hurdles, with times of 13.58 and 13.66, respectively. Carter also advanced in the 400-meter hurdles. Richardson ran a personal record time of 52.48 in the 400-meter dash. That is a new Virginia state record.

“I had some nerves in the 400 hurdle, but 100 hurdles I had good nerves,” Carter said. “I was excited about my races. I’m feeling good, and I’m thankful.”

“I’m feeling confident about the finals,” Richardson said of her performance. “It feels unreal to be under 53 seconds finally.”

The finals are taking place this weekend, and participants are competing for a chance to represent Team USA at the Pan American Junior Championships in Peru next month.