This coming weekend should be the fist weekend this season where almost all the top programs in the state compete on the same day. However, with 4 big meets in NC, they won\'t be competing against one another.
**Freedom Invitational**
Typically many Charlotte area schools travel to the Freedom Invite. If similar teams show up this year, look for the girls team race to be between Providence, North Meck, & South Meck. South doesn\'t look as strong as they were last year, but it could be a matter of time. Providence is coming off a victory at the Seahawk Invitational this past weekend and North Meck has only raced once so far and that was August 26th. Wilkes Central was also there last year and would love to spoil the fun for the much larger 4A schools.
On the guys side, Hickory was there last year, so that means Ryan Hill! Can you say, possible course record? On the guys side, Providence and South Caldwell could battle for the top team spot.
**8-Mile Relay @ Hagan Stone Park**
A very fun event, as 5 individuals from each team run a 2500m loop. Look for the Broughton boys to go after the course record after their impressive win at the Seahawk Invitational last weekend. Cardinal Gibbons, the top ranked 2A school, usually shows up for this exciting event as well. They will be strong and up front. Finally, Providence Day\'s boys have finished well each of the past few years. They are currently leading the way among Independent schools at this time.
For the girls race, the focus in on the same 3 teams. Cardinal Gibbons looks to be the favorites in this race, with Broughton and Providence Day nipping at their hills. Don\'t expect a course record here, but you can put money on 3 solid performances.
**Adidas Raleigh Invitational**
Chapel Hill is scheduled to race the Championship events here this year. So, if the usual suspects show, we can expect some very good racing. Some of the top 4A programs in the area and the state for that matter usually show. Enloe likes this race and they are coming off a 3rd place last weekend at the Seahawk Invitational, but only by 10 pts. Also, Green Hope, South View, and NW Guilford could be there.
On the girls side, Green Hope didn\'t run an \"A\" team las year, but if they do this year, they could challenge Chapel Hill. After that, the competition will fall off, but there could be a good battle for 3rd place. Hopefully, Cary Academy will decide to run the Championship race. They are the top ranked Independent school in the state. Also, look for NW Guilford to battle at the top for a high finish.
**Cannon School Invitational**
Mooresville\'s boys should win in dominant fashion.
Cannon\'s girls will look to defend their Independent school ranking against an improving Charlotte Country Day.
Top teams we would like to see, but don\'t typically race at these races: TC Roberson, Charlotte Catholic, Pinecrest, & Myers Park