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Keep an Eye on Central Arkansas
Just like Northeast Arkansas, the central part of the state has been finding more success in 2024 than they have in years past.
Asher Found leads a strong Catholic squad that recently pulled off an impressive victory at the Bryant Hornet Invitational on October 5th. Found owns the 4th fastest time in the state this season and will be a big fixture in the front pack in the 6A boys race in Hot Springs.
The Bryant boys are built somewhat similarly to Catholic. While the Hornets lack a true low-stick, they make up for it with their depth, which includes four sub 17 runners. And don't forget about Cabot, who's led by Myson McFall, and have the same average 5K time as Bryant this season (16:45).
Forgive me and my two-year old Arkansas geography, but Lakeside and Russellville, who may or may not be considered to be from Central Arkansas, are also having strong seasons this fall. The boys from North Little Rock, Vilonia, and Little Rock Christian have all taken a step forward in 2024 as well.
As we alluded to earlier, Russellville and Vilonia have looked very strong on the girls' side this season, but we can't forget about Cabot and Mount St. Mary Academy, who might be the two strongest teams from Central Arkansas this season.
Cady Masters leads a very talented Cabot team whose strength is their depth as the Panthers No. 2-6 runners have all run under 21 minutes this season. The Belles are led by a strong 1-2-3 punch at the top of their lineup consisting of Virginia Milwee, Allie Steliga, and Amelia Byers.
Currently ranked 8th and 9th in the state respectively, you will want to keep your eye on these two squads as we enter the postseason.