As we conclude our fifth week previewing each classification in Arkansas, we feature Class 5A once more this week previewing some of this season's storylines, rankings, sleepers, and more.
5A XC Preview Week: Girls Season Preview I Boys Season Preview I Girls Top 50 Returners I Boys Top 50 Returners I Returning XC Team Scores
Aubrey Minton returns to defend the state championship she won last season and will face stiff competition as 17 of the top 18 runners in 5A last season return in 2024, while multiple teams will vie for the top spot in the 5A girls team race.
The top three distance runners in 5A last season have all graduated which has left a void at the top of the Class 5A boys and a plethora of runners are capable of filling some big shoes, while Mountain Home eyes their 3rd state title in 5 years.
Take a look at a few more predictions from 5A in 2024.