The North Carolina High School Athletic Association has overturned the disqualification of Nyan Brown, whose celebration after winning a state championship cost Mallard Creek the title. Brown extended five fingers as he crossed the finish line, meant to signify five straight track titles. The official DQ led to an appeal that has now resulted in recognition of Mallard Creek as co-champions.

Race officials claimed Brown had been warned about previous celebrations, though Mallard Creek disputed knowing about any such warning. After hearings last week, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Interscholastic Appeals Board sided with the school. The NCHSAA then held an emergency meeting Tuesday to recognize Mallard Creek's victories while also allowing original winners to share titles.

C.E. Jordan High School will now share the overall state championship with Mallard Creek, while Hough High School shares the relay victory. "We are grateful for the decision," said principal Jared Thompson, who thanked supporters across the country. NCHSAA commissioner Que Tucker acknowledged the emotional impact on student-athletes who invested countless hours in their sport.