Nate Pendleton (WA)
Why: Nate Pendleton is a contender because he finished seventh last year at NXN Northwest. That placing earned him a spot on the line at Nike Cross Nationals, where he finished 88th overall. This year he has had a solid season as well winning three meets and finishing fourth at the state meet in Class 4A. His time ended up being the fifth-fastest on the day at the WIAA state championship meet.