Dominance of East Rankin Academy: With the top four seeds on their side, East Rankin Academy looks unstoppable. They've emerged as the indomitable force in the state, and their record speaks volumes: an undefeated streak against in-state teams, third place at The Opener, and victories at the Early Bird 2-miler, Victors Kickoff at the Quarry, and Park Place Invitational.
Columbia Academy's Cohesion: Columbia Academy is synonymous with unity. Their technique of pack running has made them a formidable force throughout the season. Their consistent chase of the East Rankin Lady Patriots adds an interesting dimension to this race.
Olivia Smith's Speed: With a 2:18 in the 800m, Olivia Smith is the athlete to keep an eye on. Her agility and speed are bound to bring some surprises to the table.
Oak Grove's Quest for Retention: As the defending champions, Oak Grove is entering with one clear goal: domination. With their athletes, Grayson Taylor, Matthew Maguire, and Luke Skinner holding the top three seed spots, they are the team to beat.
Hattiesburg Forerunners' Undefeated Streak: However, the home team, Hattiesburg Forerunners, can't be dismissed. Pacing their team is the incredibly fast Henry Richardson, with a sub-17 5K(XC) under his belt. With two wins this season and an impeccable race strategy showcased at the Victors Kickoff at the Quarry, they are in prime form.
Battle of the Trios: While Oak Grove's trio is leading the seed charts, Forerunners' front trio has also shown depth and synchronization in their races. If the Warriors manage to clinch the top three spots, it will become an uphill battle for their competition.
Colin Brannon - The Top Seed: Entering as the No. 6 ranked runner on the All-MileSplit Mississippi XC Team, Brannon is undeniably the athlete to watch. His recent stellar performance with a 16:33 finish at the Memphis Twilight Classic shows that he's in form and will surely be gunning for the top podium position at this event.
Jaguars' Roar: Brannon, along with Braxton Rea, could prove to be a powerful duo in leading the Jaguars to the team championship. However, the path to the title won't be easy with their fierce cross-town rivals, Germantown, standing in the way. This team duel promises to be one of the event's major highlights.
Pearl's Reigning Champion: As the reigning champ, all eyes will be on Pearl's ace as she returns to defend her crown. Her most recent top-10 finish with a PR of 20:00 at The Opener is a testament to her current form, making her the one to beat.
The Home Team Advantage: Grace Hoeniges and McKinley Drennan, the young and talented duo from Northwest Rankin, will be hoping to leverage their familiarity with the course and the support of the home crowd. They've showcased immense potential in the past and will surely aim to make a statement in this meet.
Oxford's Rising Star - Bailey Kosko: Coming in as the newest elite on the All-MileSplit Mississippi team, and ranked fifth in the state, Kosko has the target on his back. His impressive PB of 16:02 from the 2022 Watson Cross Country Classic sets him apart, and his commendable top-15 finish at the 2023 Memphis Twilight Classic after overtaking Colin Brannon, amplifies the attention on him.
Tupelo Spartans' Duo: Sam Johnson and Jeb Hamilton, the dynamic duo from Tupelo Spartans, are not far behind. Their outstanding performance at the NMPHC Classic where they claimed the top two spots marks them as serious contenders. Will they challenge Kosko's dominance?
The Underdog - Saltillo's Parker Shannon: With a PR of 16:03 and the title of runner-up at last year's Mooreville Invitational, Shannon is the wild card who could upset the odds.
The Sub-17 Brigade: A cluster of sub-17 athletes including Brodie Moore, Enoch Caviness, and Sam Baxter only intensifies the competition.
The Middle School Marvel - Ally Murphy: Myrtle's young sensation has already clinched a win this season, putting her in the spotlight.
Julianna Hamilton's Momentum: Fresh from her victory against Murphy at the 2023 TCPS Twilight, Hamilton will be high on confidence.
Dark Horse Emma Ruffin: MHSAA 4A 3200m silver medalist Emma Ruffin is not to be discounted. Her proven track record can see her rise to the occasion.
MHSAA 7A's Shining Star: Maggie Irwin, another standout from the MHSAA 7A league, adds to the fierce competition.
