NATCHEZ — The Natchez High School track program is on the rise again, and they have the chance to make their mark as they host the MHSAA Class 5A regional track meet Saturday.

The field events start at 11 a.m., and the track events will follow at 1 p.m.

Eight teams would compete including Wayne County, South Jones, West Jones, Laurel, Pearl River, Wingfield and Brookhaven high schools.

Head coach Larry Wesley said his track team has excelled this season, and they have a good chance to advance to the South State tournament in Long Beach.

“We really need the community support because track has been gone from Natchez for a while,” Wesley said. “At one time, track was really big at Natchez High, and we’re just trying to bring it back.”

Wesley said the Bulldogs are coming off a stellar regular season with the girls winning the district championship and a few key boys making their mark.

“Freddie Singleton qualified (for regionals) in the 200, triple jump and the long jump,” Wesley said. “Zyaire Ewing finished first in the shot put and the high jump. I expect Chris Crockett and Shamara Grover to do well as well.”

Wesley said only the top four teams will move on to South State, and he hopes to see fans and supporters at the track to cheer on the Bulldogs.