The class 5A Kansas Track and Field championships are
defined largely by its dominant teams.
St. Thomas Aquinas is the defending champion in the boys
division, and is a heavy favorite to win again this year. That's a significant
statement, considering that Leavenworth and Liberal have powerful boys' teams,
as well.
Newton's girls, also the defending champs, are electric in
the sprints and relays, but Pittsburg and St. James Academy are strong enough
to keep the team chase interesting.
It leaves the rest of class 5A grasping for individual
titles. Leavenworth star sprinter Aarika Lister, 2016 champion in the 100 and
200, is back after nursing injuries for much of the season. She won the 100
meters at the region 8 meet, but finished second to Sumner Academy standout
Demitra Carter in the 200. Carter has moved up from 4A, where she won the 300
hurdles title last year.
Pre-meet favorites
Boys - St. Thomas Aquina...