Relay action may have less compound force than in years past-
4x800-
Cahokia has not one but FOUR relays titles to defend this year, and the team's decision to supposedly insert Ja'mari Ward into the relays means they are serious about this title defense. It will have to start with a 4x800 win, and although their 7:55.80 win from back in April is still the 2A #1 time, there are several programs looking to take the Comanches down in this relay. Metamora may be the best bet-the Redbirds are the only other team to break 8:00 this year, and they are anchored by ultra-talented Jake Gillum, who leads a team running a squad who all appeared on the relay card last year. Metamora ran the fastest sectional time as well, 7:57.94. Normal (University) ran the second fastest time (8:01.25), and have sophomore Jared Shuckman splitting the fastest 800. Taylorville, Vernon Hills, Geneseo, XC runner-up Mahomet-Seymour, and Rochelle are all strong contenders for the podium, but these teams each will have to step it up to make a dent in Cahokia's relay title reign at the beginning of the afternoon on Saturday. The 4x800 never disappoints (at any level), and there is no better way to begin the state meet.
4x100-
We are not going to see a 41.11 display like last year with Cahokia. We will see some emerging forces come together and run fast collectively. Morgan Park has been building its program for the past two years when key players like seniors Greg Howell, Kendall Joiner and Xavier Taylor came up from the frosh ranks as a dominating force. The Mustangs now own the fastest time in the classification at 42.17. Fellow CPS rival Englewood will be on their heels as they had all season long. Hillcrest is strong and we cannot forget about the defending champions. Chicago Phillips has to be added to the mix as well.
4x200-
It is evident by the lack of depth in the 400 that many schools are loading for this relay. Chicago Morgan Park has become a force here since the CPS final busting with a sectional best 1:27.78. The Mustangs can go faster and with a fast surface and competition on its heels it is going to happen. Cahokia has run 1:27.37 without Ward on its quartet. Good. The Comanches are going to need ever man in securing vital points. Urban Prep won the CPS crown and they should be in good standing with senior William Fleming leading the way. Montini Catholic, Chicago Phillips, and Plano will be there to put pressure on the favorites.
4x400-
Cahokia remains the team to beat in the showstopper. Ain't nothing changed here as they rocked out with a 3:19.34. Can teams like Rochelle, Waterloo, Thornridge, and a surprising Peoria Manual compete for a top three spot? One thing for certain is this event will not disappoint.