Class A Girls Distance Mid-Season Remix


4x800 m Relay -

Defending Champion: Knoxville (Mackenzie Pruett, Bailey Harris, Kailee Shreeves, Breena Shreves), 9:47.15.

Key Returners: Knoxville, DuQuoin (H.S.), Elgin (Harvest Christian Academy), Rockford (Christian), Saint Joseph Ogden), Winnebago, Teutopolis

Key Newcomers: Indian Creek, Urbana (University), Williamsville

Outlook: Defending champion Knoxville is the only returning champion at the 1A level. Knoxville loses Pruitt to graduation but returns Harris and the Shreeves', led by Breena, who finished 10th in the 800 in 2019. DuQuion, Harvest Christian, Rockford Christian and Saint Joseph Ogden all return at least three runners from their all-state teams last season, and Teutopolis was the fastest team north of 10:00 at state last year. Of those teams, DuQuion appears to be in the driver's seat, with a state-leading 10:03.95 from the SIU Girls Invite. However, keep an eye on Winnebago, who is emerging as the distance powerhouse in 1A. Bago ran five girls in the top 26 in cross country, so there may be lots of young 800-meter talent this year. Bago ran 10:16 for a state #2 during 2020 indoors.