Division IV Boys (Teams)
Last year, the Foothill Technology boys won their first state championship. This season, they have remained a bit under the radar and finished in 3rd place at last week's Southern Section final. They may rally for a strong finish at state but at this point you have to look to two very strong teams in the Northern part of the state. The Sir Francis Drake boys (photo above courtesy of Marin IJs Danny Schmidt) have been very strong throughout the entire season but made a strong statement at the North Coast Section MOC by placing their top 5 runners under the 16 minute mark. The Hayward course this year was not exactly blazing so that performance should really get the attention of the rest of the teams in this division. The other teams that should be strongly considered is the Placer boys out of the Sac-Joaquin Section. They may be just a step behind the Drake boys as their 5th man is not quite as strong. Southern Section champion Cathedral won handily so they can't be overlooked.
Division IV Boys (Individuals)
The race for the individual title appears to be between three section champions. JSerra sophomore Anthony Grover won the race ahead of teammate Peter Herold. Up north, Liberty Ranch senior Collin Ullrich, dipped under 16 minutes on the rugged Willow Hills course. At the Central Coast Section final, Menlo senior Robert Miranda cruised to win his first section after missing last year's season due to an injury. The winner should be one of those four runners mentioned and the time could be quite brisk. San Rafael senior Munir Kabbara finished in the top 10 last year and will be aiming for a higher finish this year. CCS competitors Chris Anderson of San Lorenzo Valley and Sam Lavorato of Palma should also place among the front-runners.