AHSAA State Track & Field Championship

On Alabama's Beaches

Athlete during a Track & Field meet on Alabama's Beaches
Athletes crossing over hurdles during the AHSSA State Track Championship on Alabama's Beaches

All Eyes on the Finish Line

The Alabama High School Athletic Association's (AHSAA) State Track & Field Championship is an annual competition featuring the top high school students from across the state. Each spring, track and field athletes gather to run, jump, and throw in a multi-day championship for a chance to be crowned best in Alabama. Alabama's Beaches Sports & Events is proud to host the 2026 championship in Gulf Shores.

View of the Gulf Shores Sportsplex during the AHSSA Track & Field Championship
Track athlete at the AHSSA Championship on Alabama's Beaches
Track athletes jumping hurdles during the AHSSA Championship on Alabama's Beaches

Dates, Location, & Event Details

The 2026 AHSAA State Track & Field Championship is set for April 30-May 2 in Gulf Shores. Male and female athletes from 4A to 7A Alabama high schools will compete across three days at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex (19025 Oak Rd. West). The multifaceted sporting venue has a state-of-the-art high school/collegiate outdoor track, stadium seating, restrooms, parking, and concessions.

How the Meet Works

Athlete preparing to start their races during the AHSSA Track & Field Championship on Alabama's Beaches

Event Overview

Event Overview

The AHSAA State Track & Field Championship takes place over the course of three days across the track and field facilities at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex. During the championship, athletes will advance throughout the meet in both individual and team disciplines. All events are scheduled to take place at specific times, and multiple events will occur simultaneously. 

Athlete during the AHSSA Track & Field Championship on Alabama's Beaches

Categories

Categories

The AHSAA State Track & Field Championship includes a wide range of track and field events. Track events include sprints, middle-distance and long-distance races, hurdles, and relays. Field events encompass jumping and throwing disciplines, such as the discus, long jump, pole vault, and javelin. Events are categorized by discipline, school class, and gender. 

Jumping athletes during the AHSSA State Track & Field Championship on Alabama's Beaches

Progression

Progression

Athletes will compete in preliminary rounds before advancing to the final rounds, with top performers progressing as the meet unfolds. Participants may compete on multiple days if they progress. Events take place at scheduled times, with several occurring simultaneously. The schedule of events will be released closer to the championship. 

A player and coach hugging during awards at the AHSSA State Track & Field Championships on Alabama's Beaches

Awards

Awards

Individual awards are given to athletes shortly after the final event of each discipline. The team award ceremony takes place on the last day of competition, shortly after the conclusion of the final discipline event. All athletes are encouraged to attend the opening ceremony, which takes place before the start of the running events on the first day. 

Family & Spectator Information

Families and spectators are allowed into the championship with a ticket. Tickets can be purchased online prior to the meet or at the gate on the day of the meet. If you have purchased your ticket in advance, please bring a printed copy or have a digital photo of it with you as you enter. Wi-Fi is not guaranteed at the event, so it’s best to take a screenshot of your ticket before you arrive. Guests can watch events from bleacher seating and other viewing areas at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex. Outside seating, food, and drinks are not permitted inside the venue. Concessions are available as well as offerings from other on-site food vendors. Parking is available at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex. 

Lodging for the AHSAA State Track Championship

The area offers a variety of condos, beach houses, hotels, and other lodging options. From beachfront rentals and spacious stays to budget-friendly spots, there is a place for everyone attending the championship. Athletes, coaches, families, and spectators can conveniently find and secure accommodations here. For those traveling in groups, vacation rentals such as homes and condos are ideal as they provide ample space, multiple bedrooms, and kitchens.

 

Experience Alabama's Beaches Beyond the Track

Turn your trip to Alabama's Beaches into a memorable sportscation by adding fun coastal activities to your itinerary. Before or after the competition, experience the one-of-a-kind attractions, fantastic restaurants, and miles of gorgeous beaches of the area. After all, your athletes deserve a chance to relax and recharge after three days of competitions, so treat your team to a post-meet celebration, where they can relish in their triumphs!

FAQs

Where can athletes and coaches find official AHSAA rules and results?

The AHSAA Track & Field Championship rules can be viewed on AHSAA's official site.

Is parking available on-site for the AHSAA State Track & Field Championship?

Yes. Parking is available on-site at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex for the duration of the meet.

What happens if the weather affects the competition schedule?

This is a rain-or-shine event. In the event of serious weather conditions, announcements will be made to evacuate the stands. Please note that umbrellas are not permitted in the stands due to the need to maintain a clear view of the championship.

Are there dining options close to the venue between events?

Yes. There are several restaurants within a few minutes' drive of the sportsplex.

Are restrooms and concessions available on-site?

Concessions and other food options are available on-site at the venue during the event. Restrooms are located on both sides of the stadium.

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