Mickens-Malik, Johnson Go Sub 2:09 in Epic Golden South 800m


The girls classic 800m was one heck of a race to watch at the Flo Golden South Classic. 

Jinah Mickens-Malik came into the race as the top seed in the event following her stellar 800m FHSAA 3A state title a few weeks ago. 

Mickens-Malik took the the lead out from the gun with Alicia Ruiz and MGX eighth grader, Cha'iel Johnson, right behind. The trio went through the first 400m in about 58 seconds with Mickens-Malik in a significant lead heading into the back stretch. 

As these three ladies came around the last turn Ruiz and Johnson looked very strong as they seemed to find a final gear. Johnson took the move into second and as they came down the homestretch Johnson turned on the jets. 

Mickens-Malik held her own, setting a new personal record in the 800m running a 2:08.47 followed closely by Johnson, who also set a huge personal record, coming in 2:08.96 -- both of times making up the top 15 in the nation and Johnson's setting a new national leader for middle school 800m. 

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