The Gaffney High track team wants an auspicious start to the season at Rock Hill on Thursday.

The Indians enter the season without mainstays Charles Smith, Cameron Tate and Brian Oldham, but return talented freshman Kennard Lipscomb, who finished fifth in the state in the 800 meters.

Lipscomb will also participate in the mile and 4X100 and 4X400 meter relays.

Tyson Petty also returns to form a solid nucleus. Petty will compete in the 100 and 200 meter races as well as the long jump and 4X100 meter relay.

Gaffney track coach James Davis calls Petty the "fastest runner on the team."

Newcomer Garrett Bridges will compete in the 100 and 200 meter events. He'll also team with Petty on the 4X100 meter relay.

Anthony Tyus will also compete in the 100 and 200 meters, plus the long jump and 4X100 meter relay.

Shane Phillips will show his versatility by competing in the field events triple jump and discus as well as the 400 and 100 meter hurdles.

The Gaffney girls' track team should be improved this season, according to Davis.

"Our numbers there have picked up," he said.

State qualifier Tiffany Posey returns in the shot put and discus, while Shemaka Adams will participate in the 100, 200 and 400 meter races as well as the 4X100 meter relay.

Sara Belue will compete in the 400 and 800 meter races.

Davis said the move from Region III to Region II will be a challenge.

"It's a tough conference," he said. "I really don't know what to expect."