Jon Davis puts on his best performance as a high schooler
RESULTS I VIDEOS
Super senior Jon Davis of Oakwood led a strong Illinois charge Thursday night at the beautiful University of St. Louis High School. Prior to the meet, Davis had several sit-downs and thoughts on how he wanted to approach his post-IHSA season. The Festival of Miles was at the top of the list.
As the big race got underway, Davis was patient with his position among the lead pack.
Conor Lundy (Sr., Fordham Prep, NY) made a move mid-race and appeared as though he was going to win. If there was a cause of concern for Lundy it was understandable. He has had a great season thus far with a personal best 4:08.25 (full mile) indoors.
So when Lundy motored through 1200m in 3:03, it seemed as though the race was for second place. But Davis has run well when healthy and he was alert at the right time on this magical night. The University of Illinois bound Davis put a burst of his own and departed from the friendly pack with 300m to go.
Davis caught Lundy with about 150m remaining and stormed home for the big race win in a personal best 4:05.29. Davis also split the camera set up at 1600m at 4:03.97. The IL#2/US#12 mark for the full mile assured Davis' place all-time in state annals. As well, he connected on the national consciousness.
The great performances did not end with Davis though. Jack Aho (Jr., Grayslake Central) clocked 4:08.79 to cement himself as a top returner for the 2016-17 season.
Soren Knudsen (Jr., Minooka) could be the top 3A runner in xc this fall. His leg speed and endurance on the track have been impressive. Knudsen ran 4:10.17.
Heath Warren (Sr., Springfield) 4:11.82; Corey Landon (Sr., Carlinville) 4:12.42
The stream of quality performances from in-state was solid. Charlie Kern (So., York) ran in the first-mile section and ran well. Kern closed well like he normally does and hit 4:15.67 to place second. Vince Zona (Jr., Lyons Twp.) 4:18.27. Nathan Hill (Sr., Hinsdale Central) 4:20.96, and Ben Flowers (Jr., Jerseyville) 4:21.50 followed suit.