James Nealy Jr.

1977 * Track and Field * "All American Hurdler"

"He who hesitates is lost, time is of the essence" ~Harrison Dillard

James Nealy Jr. won 11 CIAC hurdle state championships in his track career at HPHS. After a span of 31 years his school hurdle records remain unbroken in both high hurdles and intermediate hurdles. In his senior year, Jim was invited to participate in both the Gold West Invitation in Sacramento, California and the All American Invitation in Chicago, Illinois. He ran the All American Invitation, but did not win. Jim's rank on the US charts and the invitations to these two prestigious high school meets, gave him "All American" status. He was the record holder of both CIAC high hurdle and intermediate hurdle events for over 20 years.

Upon graduation, Jim was awarded the Clarence Horace Wickham Medal for his contributions to HPHS sports and his athletic achievement. Jim was also an All State sprinter; in 1976 he won both the 60-yard hurdles and the 60-yard dash, which are run back to back. In 1977, Jim was named Captain of the HPHS track team, awarded the Best Student/Athlete Award and lettered in football in 1976.

After graduation Jim attended Central Connecticut State University and became an All American in the 440-yard hurdles, in 1980 and 1981. He also broke the CCSU 440 yard hurdle record. He earned All IC4A honors in 1978 and 1981 and All-New England honors for 4 years.

In 2007, as a Connecticut State trooper, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Award and the Governors Outstanding Service Award. In 2006, he received the trooper, Mentor of the Year High School Award.