Distance Races
In one sense, the contenders in the boys mile may be determined by who doesn't decide to run it. That was the case last spring when Charlie Giannini (Chico) opted to focus on the 3200. He is capable of winning both races, especially after a very strong cross country season, but may once again focus on the longer distance to maximize his chances of success at the state meet. If he does opt out, teammate Bretten Farrell will be the top returner (and if Giannini opts in, Farrell is still capable of winning). In the 3200, though, Giannini is the heavy favorite to defend his title, and based on his 6th-place finish at the state cross country meet he could be a factor in Clovis the first weekend of June. The 800 is going to be ultra-competitive this spring, as the top 7 finishers in the 2018 section final are all back, led by CJ Duncan (Wheatland Union) and Kyle Johnson (Pleasant Valley).
On the girls side, the picture is even clearer (at least for 2 events): Lauren Harper (Trinity) is the heavy favorite in the 800 after making the state final last June, and also the defending champion in the 1600. With Hana Hall's move to Arizona, though, the 3200 favorite is now Britta Bundy (Chico). If Harper opts to focus on the 800, the 1600 could be wide open; Jasee Heacock (West Valley) and Mia Ashby (Sutter) would have to be considered co-favorites in that scenario.