NATCHEZ — For the first time in his coaching career, Natchez High track coach Larry Wesley will represent the south at Friday’s MHSAA Class 5A State Championship track meet, featuring boys and girls south state champions.

“Kind of a shame when you consider how long I’ve been coaching,” said Wesley, laughing.

Wesley has won five state championships in a row in his tenure at Natchez (2001-2005). But Wesley’s Bulldogs have not won a state championship since 2005, something he hopes to change soon.

“Well, we have a bullseye on our back because we’ll represent both boys and girls, and I think that’s pretty good,” Wesley said. “I feel like we have a good chance to win, but either way it goes, I’m going to accept whatever happens.”

Competing for the Bulldogs Friday will be Zyaire Ewing, fresh off of her high jump and shot put wins at south state, and Shamarra Grover in the 300-meter hurdles and all three relays, while Ernesha Chatman will look to best her south state-best long jump. Chatman will compete in all three relays, as well.

Shaylin Williams, Talia Harding, Chazlin King and Jadelia Ealey will also be competing.

Meanwhile, Daryl Jones, who finished in the top two in 1600-meter and 3200-meter runs at south state, will look to represent for the boys.

Willie Johnson, Freddie Singleton, Malik Byrd, John Ferguson, Elbert Lyles, Chris Crockett and Alex Sweatman will participate in events Friday for the Bulldogs, as well.