3200m-
Defending Champion:
Ava Parekh, Chicago (Latin), 11:01.81
Key Returners: Ailey Mitchell (Sr., Shelbyville), Caroline Jachino (Sr., Pleasant Plains), Carly Manchester (So., Elmhurst (IC Catholic)), Julia Wolke (So., Arlington Heights
(CLA)), Natalia Martino (Jr., Winnebago), Hunter Davis (So.,
Clifton Central)
Key Newcomers: Jolee Larson (Fr., Shabonna (Indian Creek)), Kaylee Woolery (Fr., Winnebago)
Outlook: With Parekh moved onto 2A, the 3200 is fairly open, with four returning all-state runners and a number of freshmen who put themselves in the mix from cross country. Ailey Mitchell, an Illinois State commit, was runner-up to Parekh and is the top returner. Caroline Jachino, Carly Manchester, and Julia Woke return as all-staters as well. Keep an eye on Natalia Martino, who missed all-state in the 3200 in 2019 but finished 6th in the 2019 1A cross country state championship and is the top returner from that race in 1A track this season. Martino has the 1A #1 time from indoors running an all-time personal best 11:28.71. Mitchell, Davis, and Larson were the other three sub-12:00 athletes from February and March.