Track and field: Fast times at Clovis Buchanan High

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Gardena Serra’s George Farmer obliterated his personal best in the 100-meter dash Friday at the state preliminary track meet at Clovish Buchanan High, winning his qualifying heat in 10.40 seconds.

And he didn’t even post the fastest time of the day.

That honor went to Covina’s Remontay McClain, whose 10.35 was the fastest time in the nation this year. Vista Murrieta’s Jovonte Slater won his heat in 10.45 and Oxnard Rio Mesa’s Jamison Jordan won his heat in 10.46.

Farmer’s personal best came despite what he described as a poor start that he said was somewhat offset by improvement in the driving phase of his sprint.

‘For the finals, I think all I have to do is get a good start and drive like I did today and I’ll be straight,’ he said.

Farmer is bidding to become the first athlete in California history to capture state titles in three sports in the same school year, also having won championships in football and basketball.

‘Right before we got in the blocks, I thought about the state title and I just think that boosted my ego to want to win it,’ he said.

Nevertheless, Farmer whistled in admiration when reminded of McClain’s time.

‘Man, it’s going to be a good race,’ Farmer said. ‘[McClain] came out of the woodwork. I’ve never heard of him, but he’s going to be the person to beat.’

--Ben Bolch