Frick Files: Nine Notes from Early Season Racing

Who Will Win the 5A Girls Team Race?

Forgive me for jumping the gun, but there is no race that will be more hotly contested than the 5A girls team race at the state meet this fall.

With less than 21 days until the fall classic, you could make an argument for 5 different schools to win this year's state title.

As of now, Russellville appears to be the favorite. The Cyclones own the best 1-2 punch in the classification with Paxtin Lawlis and Lilly Stubblefield both having run under 19:50 this season, to go along with Madelyn Honghiran and Alyvia Davis, two sensational freshmen.

Greenwood and Mountain Home aren't too far behind. Greenwood, last year's champions, returned a lot of star power from last year's team and could repeat this season. Mountain Home continues to build on their strong season.

Lake Hamilton and Vilonia could also make a run at the top in a few weeks. Lake Hamilton will get to race on the state course on Saturday, which should be a big help for their experienced roster. Vilonia, led by Emma Fowlkes, has been spectacular in her freshman season and is capable of scoring just one point, which would give the Eagles a real shot on the day of the race.