3200m-
2018 State Champion: Jack McNabola (Chicago [F.W. Parker]) 9:24.68
Key Athletes: Negus Bogard (Jr., Robinson), Noah Smith (Sr, El Paso-Gridley), Christopher Collet (Sr., Seneca), Cort Ross (Jr., Casey-Westfield), Shay Hafner (Sr., Sterling [Newman Central Catholic]), Jackson Stewart (Sr., Decatur [St. Teresa]), Miles Sheppard (Fr., Hamilton), Aryan Lalwani (So., Urbana University), Justin Mumford (So., Trenton Wesclin), Luke Hoffmann (So., Elmwood), Caelin Foley (Sr., Galva), Steven Melin (Sr., Pleasant Plains)
Breakdown: The prospect of a Garrett Dixon vs. Christopher Collet distance rematch in late May would have had the fans and betting elite salivating. These stallions endured a great cross country season in which Collet pulled off the surprise at Detweiller Park for his first and only state championship. It will not happen as Monticello High School will compete in 2A this spring.
Noah Smith may be the biggest darkhorse competitor in the 3200m this year after showing a lot of guts by taking the lead in the 3200m last year at state through laps two through six, before falling victim to a monstrous final two laps from Wyatt McIntyre, Logan Hall, and Jack McNabola. He ended up securing the 6th place slot with a time of 9:49.72.
Negus Bogard is the top returner in terms of time and place at state last year. He edged out Smith last year taking 6th place with a 9:49.20. Additionally, there will be some depth in the ranks with emerging names: Jackson Stewart, Cort Ross, Shay Hafner, Aryan Lalwani, and Justin Mumford.