With the 2022 Utah State XC Championships in just 3 weeks, let's take a look at 3 teams in the 3A division who look like potential podium finishers.
1. Ogden
With five of the seven runners returning from their 2021 campaign, Ogden will be the favorite come the state championship on Oct. 25th. The Tigers started the season with a solid showing at the Freber Invitational with a top-5 average under 16:00- placing them on top of the 3A rankings by a wide margin. Leading this team is Jack Blodgett (who will be attempting to repeat as the individual champion) and breakout senior Carter Parsons. The key to a great state performance from Ogden will be consistency. While they started the season with an impressive performance, this team has been prone to inconsistent times from their scoring runners. A mediocre showing could open the door for other teams to grab some low points, but if this squad can perform at their potential we could see a repeat win for the tigers and five orange jerseys in the top 10.
2. Canyon View
Canyon View will be attempting to have a podium finish this year after only running two athletes at last year's state championships. With only two seniors on the varsity roster, this team has one of the best young cores in the 3A division. The Falcons have had a solid 2022 campaign with wins at both the Carbon Invitational and the Juab Invitational.
The key for the Canyon View squad to have a podium finish is two-fold. Ty Jessen and Thomas Daniels have the potential to place in the top 10, but the more important factor will be how the 3-5 runners place. This team has three runners between 16:25 and 16:40, and a lackluster performance from this pack could make the difference between a second and third-place finish.
3. Carbon
While the Dinos are currently tied for third in the 3A division rankings, this team could upset Canyon View on the right day. They finished only two points behind Canyon View at the Carbon Invitational and won the 1A-4A division of the Premier Invitational behind a strong race from senior Braxton Ware. To have a chance at an upset, the whole Carbon squad will have to have a breakout performance at the state meet. Luckily the Dinos will have an opportunity to practice at the Region 12 Championships, where they will race both Union and Canyon view.
The Next Two:
Union
Currently tied with Carbon in the 3A rankings. Led by senior Paul Squire, who is one of the favorites to win the individual title.
Morgan
The Trojans have two runners who could place in the top 10, Josh Nicolaides and sophomore EJ Lee.
