When it comes to the hurdles, Sam Gagliano is a quick learner.

The Waxahachie sophomore, in just his second season in the event, will compete at the Class 4A state meet in the 110-meter hurdles. He also qualified for state in the 300 hurdles but gave up his spot after consultation with his coach, Willie Rash.

Instead, Gagliano will add to his duties the third leg on the 4x200 relay. Without Gagliano, that relay team finished runner-up to Waco by .21 seconds at the regional meet.

He also runs the third leg on the 4x100 team, which won (41.73) at regionals.

"I've got a much better chance to help the team this way," said Gagliano, who plays receiver and defensive back on the school's football team.

Gagliano said he'll probably need to break 14 seconds in the 110 hurdles to win a state medal.

His runner-up time at the Region II meet was 14.25. His best time this season is 14.01.

Gagliano might have room to improve. He can focus on hurdles and relays now. Until last week, his practice time was divided between two other events, the high jump (fifth at regionals) and long jump (sixth).

This will be Gagliano's first state appearance. He made it as far as the regional meet in the high jump as a freshman.

Randy Jennings