Simplot Preview

It's Wednesday afternoon at Simplot and a number of athletes are taking a look at the Holt Center on the Idaho State University campus in Pocatello. Tomorrow the action begins in earnest, as qualifiers will be held in many events. Although there are numerous runners to watch time does not allow for an in depth look at the massive field, which includes participants from as far away as new York & Georgia, as well as Canada, here a just of few of note. The first section of the girls' 3200 is strong with Foot locker finalist Kelsey Braithwaite from Utah will take on Idaho freshman Mikayla Malaspina, who really came on late in the XC season. Also competing in that group are Summer harper of Utah & Miksell Clegg. The second section in that event will have local standout presli Hutchinson & Paige Gilchrist plus Rebecca Lassere of Bishop Kelly and Sarah Feeny of Utah. Foot Locker finalist & state champ Dallin Farnsworth, yet another local runner, will head the boys' 3200 in a section that includes Keegan Symmes of Washington & Zach Perrin of Montana. Super freshman & state titlist Elijah Armstrong tops the other section. Defending Simplot mile champion Erik Harris returns to challenge a fine field, which includes Jake Powell in his section. Other runners of note in the event include Morgan Choate, Cade Perry, Brad Nye and Caden Clay, although their talent will be divided among a number of divisions. Hannah Cunliffe, who established a fresman national record in the 60 Meters in 2011, will lead that event. Others to watch are kennadi Bouyer, who did well at last weekend's Husky Classic, plus Sarah Stavig. The male version of the event will include Damian Green and T J Peay. Hannah McInturff returns to action in the 1600 Meter and will be formidable but she will be challenged by Sam McKinnon, who was so impressive last fall in the Jim Danner Inviational that served as a prelude to NXN. Not to be overlooked are Hannah Haws of Utah & Hailey Ricks of Wyoming, along with Cheryn Trapp & Mikayla Tiffany of Idaho, Shannon Maloney of Colorado & Alyssa Faulks of Nevada. Through the years Simplot has witnessed some great performances from prep stars, who went on to collegiate success and beyond like luke Puskedra, Josh Rohatinsky & Alicia Craig and we look forward to who will inscribe their name in the rich history of this series. Just last year Ryan Crouser heaved the shot put over 77 and history could be etched in the next two days.