No. 7 Lilly Overby
School: Simpson Academy
Grade: Sophomore
Class: MAIS 5A
2023 5K(XC) SB: 20:00.2
Season Analysis:
Grabbing the No. 7 spot on the All-MileSplit Mississippi roster is none other than the 2022 All-Mississippi Cross Country Champion from Simpson Academy, Lilly Overby. Her positioning isn't a reflection of any dip in her performance; rather, it underscores the sheer depth and talent bursting through the Mississippi Girls Cross Country scene currently. Overby's season has been marked by tenacity and strength, as evidenced by her two victories and a commendable top-10 finish at "The Opener - 2023". Notably, she was the third Mississippian to cross the finish line, closely tailing Addison Rainey and Layla Warren, fellow stars of the circuit. With her enduring grit and unwavering consistency, Overby remains a stalwart of Mississippi Cross Country, and her presence on this list seems solid for the foreseeable future.
No. 6 Layla Warren
Claiming the No. 6 spot is Simpson Academy's fierce competitor, Layla Warren. Known for her unyielding spirit, Warren epitomizes resilience, taking on races with an aggressive front-running style that rarely wavers. Her recent accolades include a standout top-five finish at "The Opener - 2023", where she clocked an impressive 19:46.7, emerging as the second Mississippian to finish. Not one to rest on past successes, Warren also claimed victory at the Early Bird 2-miler, dominating a competitive MAIS field. Furthermore, her racing journey this season has seen her lock horns with her teammate, Overby, as she secured a commendable runner-up finish to her at the Cathedral XC Twilight. Undoubtedly, Warren's relentless drive ensures she's always at the vanguard of any race, putting in maximum effort and executing with precision, making her an athlete to watch.
No. 5 Ella Rankin
Securing the No. 5 position and standing as the top representative from MAIS, Hartfield Academy's Ella Rankin is a force to be reckoned with. Embodying the art of consistency, Rankin's season has been marked by noteworthy accomplishments. Her victorious stride at Scott County stands as a testament to her consistency, as well as her runner-up finish to Alex Lee at the 2023 Victors Kickoff at the Quarry, a race that truly showcased her grit and competitive spirit. In a heart-racing duel, Rankin led a significant portion of the race, proving her mettle against top-tier competition. With her impressive resume of dependability and given her current form, as long as health remains on her side, Rankin's presence on this list seems firmly anchored.
No. 4 Brookelyn Morgan
Steadfast at No. 4 and a familiar name on the All-MileSplit Mississippi list, Tupelo High School's Brookelyn Morgan continues to make waves in the Cross Country arena. Kicking off her season on a high, she clocked an impressive 19:34 at the Tennessee River Classic, shaving off over 30 seconds from her previous year's performance. This momentum carried forward as she clinched a top-20 finish at the Memphis Twilight Classic, clocking 19:59 and establishing herself as the second-fastest Mississippian at the event. Known for her aggressive front-running strategy, Morgan remains a pivotal asset for Tupelo. With her eyes set on the pinnacle, she's clearly in the race not just to participate but to dominate, making her journey one to closely watch.
No. 3 Alex Lee
School: Madison Central High School
Grade: Sophomore
Class: MHSAA 7A
2023 5K(XC) SB: 19:38.9
Season Analysis:
Defying expectations and bursting onto the scene, Madison Central's Alex Lee clinches the No. 3 spot on the All-MileSplit Mississippi roster. Her inclusion is not just surprising but a testament to her hard work, dedication, and sheer talent, especially given that she wasn't on the preseason list. Lee has showcased a dominant streak, remaining undefeated against Mississippi's best, and what's more commendable is her triumph against top-tier competition. Kicking off her season, she stunned many by outpacing the formidable Ella Rankin at the 2023 Victors Kickoff at the Quarry. Lee then showcased her prowess by finishing ahead of Tupelo's ace, Brookelyn Morgan. The transformation in Lee's performance hints at a rigorous and dedicated summer training regime. It's evident that she's in peak form, and as the 2023 Cross Country season unfolds, Lee is a talent that's set to shine even brighter.
No. 2 Addison Rainey
School: Ocean Springs High School
Grade: Junior
Class: MHSAA 7A
2023 5K(XC) SB: 19:23.2
Season Analysis:
Cementing her No. 2 position with a scintillating performance at "The Opener - 2023" is Ocean Springs' prodigious talent, Addison Rainey. Despite a hiatus from racing since January of 2023, Rainey didn't miss a beat, taking on "The Opener" with the tenacity of an athlete in peak form. Her electrifying pace, storming to the lead, was a sight to behold. Finishing a commendable third overall, Rainey's time of 19:23.2 not only earned her the honor of being the top Mississippian across the line but also marked her swiftest season opener ever. Given her current trajectory and provided she remains injury-free, it's evident that Rainey has her gaze firmly set on the apex of Mississippi's Cross Country scene.
No. 1 Kaitlyn Burge
Dominating the top tier of the All-MileSplit Mississippi leaderboard is Hernando's very own sensation, Kaitlyn Burge. Her ascent to the No. 1 position is anything but unexpected, given the storm she has been brewing this season. For those unfamiliar with Burge's recent performances, here's a simple breakdown: she's taken on three races, blitzed her way to victory in all, and stamped her authority on three different courses. Her form is nothing short of remarkable. She's not just winning; she's setting the tracks ablaze with her passion and skill. With the momentum she currently holds, breaking the 19-minute 5K barrier seems more a question of "when" rather than "if". Watch out, Mississippi, Burge is on a mission and shows no intention of slowing down.