Flowery Branch's Erika Rucker turned in the performance of a lifetime at the state championship meet Saturday at Hugh Mills Stadium in Albany.

Not only did Rucker repeat as a state champion in the 400-meter with a state-best time of 53.96 seconds, but added to her legacy at the school with the Class AAAA state title in the 800 (2:16.8).

"This is what I wanted since the first of the season," Rucker said.

"This was just a great experience to wear the Flowery Branch uniform one more time."

Lady Falcons coach Jimmy Sorrells said it was tough not to get choked up watching a runner that has grown up in the program achieve such success.

He says Rucker is a rare breed with her combination of great athletic ability and tremendous attitude. On top of that, he says she is hands down the best sprinter he's coached in his career.

"Besides having great athletic ability, she's got great parents, a great attitude toward life and tremendous humility," Sorrells said.

"There's not many athletes like her out there."

Rucker had to battle hard for each title. In the 400, she was tied with her nearest competitor with only 100 meters left to run.

Then in the 800, she was running at about fifth or sixth early in the race, but took to lane three to begin and pass the pack one at a time.

According to Sorrells, doubling in the 400 and 800 is the toughest combination to win with the perfect balance of speed and endurance needed to win the races.

West Hall runners also had a big day during the third day of the meet.

Maia Booker took second in the 100 (12.03) and third in the 200 (24.78), and LeNiesha Kearse placed third in the 100 intermediate hurdles (14.96) and fifth in the 300 hurdles (45.82).

Also in the 800, Gainesville freshman Sara Hayes finished fourth overall.