Akai Tonge, a junior at Windermere Preparatory School, set a new school record in the 400-meter hurdles at the 2026 Dr. Baptiste Invitational. He clocked a time of 57.85 seconds during the event held at West Orange High School on March 6. This performance marks the fastest time for a Laker in the event.
The 2026 Dr. Baptiste Invitational took place on Friday, March 6, at West Orange High School, where Windermere Preparatory School's track and field team competed. Junior Akai Tonge excelled in the 400-meter hurdles, recording a time of 57.85 seconds that surpassed the previous school record and established him as the fastest Laker in the event.
Tonge's achievement builds on his prior experience. During his sophomore year at Timber Creek High School, he achieved a personal best of 54.87 seconds in the 400-meter hurdles and 14.58 seconds in the 110-meter hurdles. Now competing for Windermere Prep, this new record highlights his continued development in the sport.
The event underscores the competitive nature of high school track and field in the region, with athletes pushing boundaries in various disciplines. Tonge's performance contributes to Windermere Prep's efforts in boys track and field, though specific team standings from the invitational were not detailed in reports.