Monologue: Sometimes the best test of character is when one is far away from home. The massive Arcadia Invitational will not be a hostile environment for the visitors but at the same time don't expect momma's homecooked meals on a platter. In past years, teams such as Lincoln-Way East girls and Neuqua Valley boys have completed the trip successfully. That success is measured by hitting pundit approved goal times as well as personal ones. But the team to watch are the Homewood-Flossmoor girls this time. The two-time defending 3A state runner-ups Lady Vikings have brought a calvary to California. They will contest themselves against some of the nation's best in a variety of events. So in essence, this will be put up or shut time. Kaylah McCall will lead her team into battle with the 100H and several relays. It should be interesting.
Individually, the Land of Lincoln athletes is second to none in enemy territory. Our best distance runners will conduct business at a premium level. For starters, the main event will be the boys 3200m and although we do not have a superstar in the race this round, we have several emerging athletes looking to shine brightly on the national stage. Tyler Cushing, Jack Roberts, Brett Gardner, Tommy Brady, and Mathias Powell will be looking to run close to the magical 9:00 barrier.
New to the national scene is Riley Ammenhauser. The super sophomore from Neuqua Valley will be competing in her first big-time meet outside of the state meet. She will put her string of 40+ foot triple jumps on the line... Lakes will be there with the girls 4x800 relay, Jenna Schwartz, and Ella Behrens will take a crack at some fast times.
The incomparable Katelynne Hart will be looking to continue her great racing on the national scene. Hart has not been kind to the competition since her high school inception. This year, in particular, she has been rough by dropping some serious flames on the track. Hart was US #2 overall in the 3200/mile combination indoors including running a sizzling 9:58.42 (two-miles). The weather is expected to ideal for distance runners with climes in the upper 50s late into the California night. Track and field is an unpredictable sport so be ready and have your favorite snack handy and follow the action #arcadiainvite19
Boys-
Tyler Cushing (Bolingbrook) 3200m
Jack Roberts (Downers Grove North) 3200m