Kansas MileSplit reporter Pat Melgares joined the throngs of
spectators at the class 3A/5A/6A Kansas State Cross Country Championships who
ran from point to point watching each race unfold.
Here, we'll take a look at how the race for the class 5A boys individual state title shaped up, through Pat Melgares' camera lens.
Throwing Down the Gauntlet: The top three contenders entering the race got out to a fast start. Ethan Marshall of St. Thomas Aquinas (right), Jack Moore of St. James Academy, and Sam Hubert of DeSoto (partially hidden) lead the pack at about 3/4 mile into the race.
Halfway point: Just past 1 1/2 miles, Marshall is forcing the pace. Only Hubert is able to stay with him to this point in the race.
Two Miles: Marshall is well ahead at two miles. Later, he says he was surprised but happy to have a commanding lead at this point.
History-Maker: Marshall becomes the first-ever two-time boys state champion from St. Thomas Aquinas. His time of 15:33.9 is the fastest among all classifications at this year's state championships.
Friends, Game Competitors: Afterwards, Moore, Marshall and Hubert congratulated each other in the finish area. Hubert was the state runner-up in 15:33.3 and Moore placed third in 15:55.0.