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DANVILLE, Ill. – D’Mario Jackson is not just a name to remember; it’s a force on the track. As a sophomore in 2025, he made headlines by qualifying for the state competition in both the 100 and 200-meter dashes. But his journey didn’t stop there.
In 2026, Jackson is set to take his talents to the prestigious blue track in Charleston, competing once again in the 100 and 200-meter races, and now adding the 400-meter to his repertoire. His impressive feats include sweeping victories in the 100, 200, and 400-meter dashes at both the Big 12 conference meet and the Monticello 2A sectional.
Jackson’s top-notch performances have not gone unnoticed. His personal best times, which are detailed on Athletic.net, currently sit at the pinnacle of Illinois’ Class 2A rankings. Such speed and skill are hard to overlook, but Jackson’s influence extends well beyond his individual achievements.
- 100: 10.50
- 200: 21.07
- 400: 47.99
His coach, Tyler Arnholt, head of the Danville boys’ track team, praises Jackson for his leadership and drive. “D’Mario Jackson inspires competitive spirit in every practice. He’s not just present; he’s a motivator. If a teammate is absent, he doesn’t hesitate to reach out and encourage participation. Everyone understands that improvement requires commitment, and D’Mario exemplifies that. His dedication as a student, teammate, and leader is unparalleled. He’s the kind of athlete every coach dreams of having year after year,” Arnholt shared.
“[D’Mario Jackson] makes everybody competitively practice, like every day,” Danville head boys’ track coach Tyler Arnholt said. “And if kids are gone, he’ll get on them in the hallways or he’ll text them or he’ll message them because he knows, just like everybody else does on this team, to get better, you have to be here. And he’s here every day and he’s pushing kids and kids are pushing him. And he’s a great student. He’s a great teammate, he’s a great leader. He’s someone I wish I had on the team every year.”
Jackson will run in Charleston for the state meet on Friday, May 29 for prelims, with finals set for Saturday, May 30.
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