North Catholic twin sisters, track and field stars Anna Lazzara, left, and Audra Lazzara, combined to qualify for six state events. Derek Pyda/Butler Eagle

SHIPPENSBURG — North Catholic's girls track and field team has received an influx of talented athletes in recent years.

Sophomore twin sisters Anna and Audra Lazzara have spent this season proving they belong on that list.

The siblings qualified for states in six combined events. In the first day of the PIAA Track and Field Class 2A Championships Friday at Shippensburg University, Anna medaled in the long jump by placing third (18 feet, 0.25 inches), Audra reached Saturday's final in the 100-meter hurdles by placing second (15.15 seconds) in prelims, and they both ran a leg of North's 4x100 relay that finished first (48.53) in prelims, ensuring it a spot in Saturday's championship heat.

The duo has made great strides since last year.

"I competed here as a freshman, just on a relay," said Anna, who also ran in prelims for the 100 and 200 dash Friday. "I had a stress fracture in my right shin at the start of my freshman year for track, but I've been healthy this whole season. I've been mentally locked in."

Anna's appearance here last year spurred Audra's sophomore campaign. The latter was also involved in the 300 hurdles prelims.

"I saw her compete at states and wanted to join her, definitely," she said. "I was more dedicated and motivated to improve this season."

Audra is 30 minutes younger than Anna. Their older sister, Grace, previously starred for the Trojanettes.

"Both of our parents were involved in track in high school and college, and we just followed them," said Audra, who recently claimed a WPIAL crown in the 100 hurdles. "Anna and I both competed in the long jump this year, and she definitely had a better season than me in that event and I am so happy for her. There's no jealousy involved, just friendly competition."

Anna and Audra teamed with Seava Cresta and Daphne Flerl in the 400 relay. The foursome won a WPIAL title last week.

Following are the Butler County-area athletes who earned a medal by placing in the top eight at the PIAA Track and Field Championships, which began Friday at Shippensburg University.

Class 3A

Girls

Pole vault: 7(tie)-Aubrey Rock (Butler) 11-6

Class 2A

Boys

1,600 run: 3-Michael Braun (Freeport) 4:11.97

Girls

Long jump: 3-Anna Lazzara (North Catholic) 18-0.25