DIVISION IV
The race for the team title is certainly decided, but the race for second place is anything but that. The program to most likely lay claim to the team title is the one and only St. Thomas Aquinas. Others in the running for a team runner-up title include Metairie Park Country Day, ARCA, and St. Martin's Episcopal. These three teams may not be competing for the championship, but it will surely be a race to watch for the silver.
St. Martin's has a possibility for a low stick with the likes of Devyn McManus and another in the top 20 with Juliet Whitaker. Outside of these two, St. Martin's can only hope that the remainder of its top five is able to break into the top 30.
Kayla Beacom at the Chile Pepper Festival
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ARCA has really shown growth this year, possibly being one of the best teams in the state. Kalynn Beacom has the potential to place within the top ten and give her team a strong low stick. In addition to her, Ava LeBouef and Lily Shute might both be able to fit within the top 20, giving this team a solid chance for the state title or runner-up position.
Metairie Park has only become better as the season progresses. This may be the team that can possibly challenge STA for the state title, if not snag the runner-up trophy. Raine Goldenberg has been a reliable number one and might be able to garner a top-ten finish, coupled with Marygrace De la Cruz and Coco Goldenberg, this team has a strong front three. Much like the rest of the teams mentioned prior, this team must hope for some top-30 finishes from its fourth and fifth runners.
Emma Bourg taking first at the St. Joseph's Invitational
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St. Thomas Aquinas looks to be the favorite by a fair margin. With the potential for three girls in the top ten and one more in the top 20, it's hard for this team to lose.
Some individuals to look out for are Emma Bourg of Houma Christian, Sara Godley of Ascension Episcopal, and Madison Suire and Kaitlyn Sawyer of Hathaway. Emma Bourg could very well be one of the best runners in the state. She's already run the fastest time this year in 17:21 and is the clear favorite for the individual title. Sara Godley is yet another very talented athlete and would be a safe bet for second place. Suire and Sawyer make up a strong duo for Hathaway and are the reason that their team is renowned across the state.