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.
Today, we'll take a look at how the race for the class 3A girls individual state title shaped up, through Pat's camera lens.
Early Lead: Class 3A defending state champion Hannah Burks of Beloit set the pace at the 3/4 mile mark. She is flanked by Lexi Kats of Norton (left) and Lara Murdock of Colby. A great start and great pack early in the race.
Halfway point: Just past 1 1/2 miles, Burks is still pushing the pace, but Murdock seems to be biding her time. Kats and Caroline Giles of Minneapolis are in pursuit.
Two miles: Murdock makes her move for the lead as the race heads into the last mile. Burks and Kats are hanging tough; Giles is there, too, but just out of this picture on the left.
Another Lead Change: Burks regains the lead heading up the hill past King's Bridge, with 800 meters to go to the finish. Murdock (hidden) is a few strides back and Kats has a clear hold on third place.
The Closer: Kats powered through the skyline, catching Burks and Murdoch and then poured on the afterburners to win in 19:26.6. Murdock fought for second in 19:30.3 and Burks was third at 19:44.8.