Pinecrest's depth and pack-running prowess should carry the day in a preview of the 4A East Regional course.
Girls Championship
Individuals to Watch
Based on times so far this year, Kerry Leonard (Laney) is the favorite; however, expect Jennie Cunningham (Pinecrest) to progress quickly in her rebound from some health problems that resulted in lost training time, and watch for her to challenge for the win on what amounts to her home course. Abby Verchick (Union Pines), teammates Lavinia Cotto and Kate Sanborn (Jack Britt), and teammates Sarah Pressley and Jaleigh Jensen (Pinecrest) all have a shot at the top 5.
Teams to Watch
The Pinecrest girls are heavy favorites any way you slice it; it appears that Laney will have the best chance to challenge the Patriots, but it could be a tall order. Jack Britt, Hoggard, and Sanderson could find themselves battling it out for third place.
(Using this year's times)
(Using last year's times)
Boys Championship
Individuals to Watch
Based on returning times, Jimmy Hollingsworth (Northern Guilford) could be an overwhelming favorite. If Philip Hall (Terry Sanford) is racing here, he will be the only one who could challenge for the win; however, it looks like he may be bound for Raleigh instead. Chris Kelly (Pinecrest) has had a good start to the season, running an all-time PR already. There could be a good-sized pack of runners in the 16:30's or just below, including Calvin Daughtry (Laney), George Webb (New Hanover), and teammates Matt Harmody, Will Pearson, and Becket Killam (Pinecrest). Keep an eye on the South View duo of Michael Staples and Nick Owens, the latter of whom is still on the road to recovery from an injury earlier in the year.
Teams to Watch
Once again, Pinecrest is completely in the driver's seat, and the potential is there for a runaway as the Patriots will try to assert their status as a top 5 team in the state in advance of next week's first in-season team rankings. South View also has a solid team, and should finish second; if Terry Sanford is at ful strength, they might be able to challenge for that spot. After that, it's a bit jumbled: Ashley, Pine Forest, New Hanover, Hoggard, and Jack Britt all have a chance at the top 5, which should make the middle of the race interesting.
(Using this year's times)
(Using last year's times)