Finish Line Gesture DQs High School Track Team

Officials say the act violates a rule regarding excessive celebrations.

After helping his team win the 4×100 relay last weekend, anchor leg runner Derrick Hayes pointed to the sky in a celebratory gesture.

His actions, however, were deemed to violate a rule that bans excessive celebration. As a result, the Columbus High School (Texas) relay squad will not be allowed to compete at the upcoming state championships.

Hayes’ father told WFAA-TV that his son’s gesture was most likely a religious one.

“It was a reaction,” K.C. Hayes said. “I mean you’re brought up your whole life that God gives you good things, you’re blessed.”

Some people have appealed to the state to have the punishment erased and allow the team to run at states, but it appears their pleas are falling on deaf ears.

For More: WFAA-TV