VHSL Group 5A))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
This will hands down be the best state meet team wise. Both the boys and girls competition is dead-even on paper with it really being a tossup. For the girls it is Hampton and Atlee and for the boys it is Kempsville and Lee-Davis. Both will see each other head-to-head and in the relays but for the most part these teams are searching for points elsewhere. The Girls 100m hurdles between Khoi Banks (Hampton) and India Lowe (Atlee) could be the deciding event between these two powerhouses.
On the boys side of things the big event and the event of the meet is the 4x800. Though the 4x400 between Lee-Davis and underdog Hermitage who will want to play the role of the upset will be good, the best race has to be the boys 4x800. This race will feature a staggering six teams seeded under 8:00 with many more on the doorstep as well. Highland Springs, typically a sprint and hurdler powerhouse, is shattering all hope and stereotypes this season by entering the meet as the favorites and state leaders at 7:44.30.
This meet will also feature the last races of some of Virginia's all-time greats including Matthew Novak (Deep Run) who is the top seed in the 1600 and 3200 (4:06 & 9:16) and triple crown hopeful Tori Ray (Hampton) who has a legit shot at sweeping the sprints.
On the field, Lee-Davis' Connor Scott, only a sophomore will look to win the discus title to garner some points for his team while Kempsville's Devontay Doyle will be doing the same in multiple jumps.
One athlete to keep two eyes on is Great Bridge's Jessica Tucker who is ranked all-time in the 100 as a freshman! This could be a huge breakout meet for her in both the 100 and 200. She was the Dogwood Track Classic champion at 100m this season.
Predictions
MVP: Matthew Novak
Dark Horse: George C. Marshall in Girls 4x800 and 1600
Race To Watch: Boys 4x800m Relay
Biggest Storyline: Atlee winning for Coach Triemplar
