Boys Class B Distance Preview

Bruce Bickford's two mile record could potentially be in jeopardy tomorrow as Dan Curts of Ellsworth looks to run a fast time.

800

Record: Kevin Floster Lake Region 1:56.12 2005

Will Shafer of Gray New Gloucester is the overwhelming favorite to take the 800 title tomorrow. The switch from basketball to indoor track has paid massive dividens as he comes in with the fastest time of all classes (1:57.76). Shafer should have an outside shot at chasing down Kevin Floster’s record. The only way for him not to is if he decides to hold his energy to run a very fast mile. The race for second should be exciting to watch as well. Ben Trapani of Camden Hills has run 2:02.49 this winter, and should be one of the favorites for the runner up. Don’t count out Robert Looker of Ellsworth. Looker has had a brilliant year of running, and he’s a big time racer. Expect him to be in the mix. Other runners to watch for will be Jared Schrader of Fryeburg, Ralph Magnani of MDI and Will Britton of Cape Elizabeth.

Mile

Record: Louie Luchini Ellsworth 4:19.76 1998

Louie Luchini’s mile record will be in serious jeopardy tomorrow as Will Shafer comes into the meet with the second fastest time in the state running 4:18.22. Shafer has been one of the top milers in New England this winter, and will hope to run a very fast time in order to get into a fast heat at the New England Championships. Last week, Shafer dominated the WMC Championships as he won both the mile and the 2 mile running 4:18 and 9:41 respectively. There should be a duel between Ben Trapani of Camden Hills and Chris Cote of Waterville for the runner up tomorrow. Trapani edged Cote at the KVAC Championships last weekend as he ran 4:32.05 to Cote’s 4:33.65. Cote will be out for revenge, so expect this duel to get heated. Other runners to watch for will be Chandler Vincent of Freeport, Ben Garcia of Gray New Gloucester and TJ Rose of Fryeburg.

2 Mile

Record: Bruce Bickford Lawrence 9:15.5 1975

The two mile will be the deepest event of all the distance races as there are six runners who have run 10:00 or faster. Dan Curts of Ellsworth is the odds on favorite to win tomorrow. He comes in with the fastest time in the state in 9:27.41 which he ran at the EMITL Championship’s last weekend. With the two mile being the focus tomorrow, look for Curts to potentially break Bickford’s long standing record. Curts has a lifetime personal record of 9:19 in the two mile, and with his recent performances Curts looks poised to go after the record. The race for second will be intriguing to watch as a pair of Cape Elizabeth teammates—Liam Simpson and Mitch Morris—will likely run shoulder to shoulder against Ben Decker of Yarmouth. The Cape teammates got the better of Decker last week at the WMC Championships as Simpson and Morris placed second and third respectively. Other runners to watch tomorrow will be Matt Malcom of NYA, Chris Cote of Waterville and Kyle Kennedy of Cape Elizabeth.

Girls Class B Distance Preview

Kirstin Sandreuter of Greely will be one to watch in the mile and the two mile. Her anticipated match up against Aleta Looker of Ellsworth could be one for the ages.

800

Record: Abby Chapman Greely 2:15.28 2003

Aleta Looker of Ellsworth is the overwhelming favorite to take the 800 meter title on Monday as she currently holds the fastest time in the state regardless of class running 2:13.87 which is just off her own all-time Maine record. The Georgetown University commit should be able to win this event with relative ease, but expect her to try and chase down the record which is currently held by Abby Chapman of Greely who ran 2:15.28 back in 2003. Last week at the EMITL, Looker won the 800 by an astonishing fifteen seconds running a time of 2:20.88. Other runners to watch in this event include Hailey Petsinger of Cape Elizabeth.  She won the 800 at the WMC Championships running a time of 2:30.51. Expect her to challenge for the runner up spot. The 800 field isn’t remarkably deep, but Petsinger has two teammates in Hayle Doss and Eva Brysdon who could potentially give the Capers some extra points for the team competition if they can both place in the top eight. Other runners to watch for in this event will be Fern Morrison of Foxcroft, and Haley Steckler of Freeport.

Mile

Record: Bethanie Brown Waterville 5:00.31 2013

Bethanie Brown’s record will likely be safe this year, but the showdown between Kirstin Sandreuter of Greely and Aleta Looker of Ellsworth will be the most exciting race of the day tomorrow. Both runners have been on a tear this winter. Sandreuter comes into the meet with the second fastest time in Class B in 5:11.93. Last week at the WMC Championships, Sandreuter won both the mile and the two mile in league record times. The pace of the race could determine the victor as Looker has superior leg speed, but Sandreuter has the ability to grind out races. It will be interesting to see the diverse running styles between them. Heather Evans of York is another runner to watch in this event. She’s been one of the most consistent runners in the WMC this year, and with Looker and Sandreuter likely setting a fast pace, look for Evans to run a fast time as well. Other runners to watch will be Emily Mason of Greely, Brittany Bowman of Camden Hills and Anna Lastra of Fryeburg.

2 Mile

Record: Bethanie Brown Waterville 10:46.95

The aforementioned Kirstin Sandreuter of Greely should be able to win the two mile with relative ease. While she’s the overwhelming favorite, she might try to run a very fast time in order to get into one of the fastest heats at the New England Championships. She comes in with a season best time of 11:07.26. Aleta Looker comes into this race with the fourth fastest time in Class B in 11:54.65. Expect her to battle for second with runners such as Heather Evans of York, Brittany Bowman of Camden Hills and Hannah Austin of NYA. They all have broken the 12 minute barrier this winter, and will look to run even faster tomorrow. Other runners to watch for will be Emily Mason of Greely, Abby Hersom of Oceanside and Caroline Driscoll of MDI.

The Big Three Award (Male)

Best Male Trio in the State
Previous Winners
2012: Lewiston- Mohamed Barre, Mohamed Awil, Mohamed Mohamed (Isaiah Harris)
2011: Falmouth- Tim Follo, Thomas Edmonds, Jay Lesser
2010: Scarborough- Nick Morris, Tom Hague, Zach Brown

Ellsworth- Dan Curts, Brayden Beardsley, Robert Looker

The choice between Ellsworth and Cape Elizabeth for best trio in the state was incredibly tough to choose. Granted, Cape Elizabeth beat Ellsworth for their second straight Class B title, but Ellsworth's top end talent is slightly better than Cape's. Dan Curts was the leader for this team, but without the emergence of Brayden Beardsley, and the big time running ability of Robert Looker, Ellsworth wouldn't have been arguably the best team in the state this year. Curts, despite an injury to his hamstring, had a spectacular season on the trails, and isn't done yet. Beardsley became one of the states best runners after placing third in Class B at the state meet, and Looker showed he is capable of running in big time meets as evidence to his seventh place finish. Unfortunately, all three of these tremendous runners graduate next spring, but expect all of them to run fast times on the track this winter and spring.



2. Cape Elizabeth- Liam Simpson, Peter Doane, Mitch Morris

3. Mt. Blue- Josh Horne, Aaron Willingham, Dan Lesko

4. Lewiston- Isaiah Harris, Mohamed Awil, Mohamed Mohamed

5. Scarborough- Colin Tardiff, Jacob Terry, Andrew Sholl

Boys Team Rankings Week 9

1. Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 1 Meet: States Place: 1st Class B
Cape defended their state title as they pulled away from Ellsworth to place three runners in the top ten overall. Liam Simpson led the way for them as he was the runner up. Look for them to contend for a top ten finish at New Englands. 

2. Lewiston
Pre: 2 Meet: States Place: 1st Class A
Lewiston won their first state title since 2007 as they were led by Isaiah Harris as he placed second to Mt Blue's Josh Horne. Look for Lewiston to contend for a top ten finish at New Englands.

3. Ellsworth
Pre: 3 Meet: States Place: 2nd Class B
Dan Curts led the way for Ellsworth as they were the runner up to Cape Elizabeth tallying 61 points. They  also got a big effort from Brayden Beardsley as he placed third overall. Look for Ellsworth to challenge for a top ten finish at New Englands.

4. Scarborough
Pre: 4 Meet: States Place: 2nd Class A
The Red Storm placed second to Lewiston on Saturday as they were led by Colin Tardiff and Jacob Terry as they placed seventh and 12th respectively. Scarborough should challenge for a top fifteen finish at New Englands this Saturday.

5. Bangor
Pre: 6 Meet: States Place: 3rd Class A
Bangor clinched the final spot to make New Englands as they placed third in Class A behind Jonathan Stanhope's fifth place finish. Look for Bangor to make a run at a top 20 finish at New Englands on Saturday.

6. Falmouth
Pre: 5 Meet: States Place: 4th Class A
Falmouth was shorthanded on Saturday as they were without three of their top five, but they still managed to place fourth in Class A. Scott Lambert was their top runner as he placed 13th overall. Expect Falmouth to be one of the top teams in the state next year as they return everyone from their top five.

7. Gorham
Pre: UR Meet: States Place: 5th Class A
Gorham had a strong day on Saturday as they placed fifth overall behind Jesse Southard's sixth place finish. Expect them to be one of the top teams in the SMAA as they return three of their top five next year.

8. Windham
Pre: 9 Meet: States Place: 6th Class A
Windham placed sixth in Class A behind Nate Skvorak's 22nd place finish. Windham will be one of the top teams in the SMAA next fall as they bring back three of their top five.

9. York
Pre: 10 Meet: States Place: 3rd Class B
York placed third in Class B on Saturday as they were led by Alexander Brockleman's 19th place finish. Expect York to be one of the top teams in the WMC as they bring back four of their top five.
 
10. Hampden Academy
Pre: UR Meet: States Place: 7th Class A
Hampden Academy placed seventh in Class A as they were led by Caleb Lord's third place finish. Look for Hampden to be one of the top teams in the KVAC next year as they bring back four of their top five.

Boys Team Rankings Week 8

1. Cape Elizabeth

Pre: 1 Meet: WMR Class B Place: 1st

Cape Elizabeth showed why they are far and away the best in the west as they cruised to an easy win placing four runners in the top ten. They are the favorites to defend their Class B title on Saturday.

2. Lewiston

Pre: 2 Meet: EMR Class A Place: 1st

Lewiston looked very impressive in their win at regionals as their top five all clocked under 17 minutes. They are the favorites to win in Class A on Saturday.

3. Ellsworth

Pre: 3 Meet: EMR Class B Place: 1st

Ellsworth got a great return from Dan Curts and Brayden Beardsley ran the race of his life as they dominated the competition in Class B last Saturday. Look for them to challenge Cape for the B title on Saturday.

4. Scarborough

Pre: 4 Meet: WMR Class A Place: 1st

Scarborough fended off a tough challenge from Falmouth as they took home another regional title this weekend. Colin Tardiff led them with his second place finish. Look for them to challenge Lewiston for the A title on Saturday.

5. Falmouth

Pre: 6 Meet: WMR Class A Place: 2nd

Falmouth gave Scarborough a scare this weekend as they placed second behind Bryce Murdick's fifth place finsh. Look for Falmouth to challenge Lewiston and Scarborough for the A title on Saturday.

6. Bangor

Pre: 5 Meet: EMR Class A Place: 2nd

Bangor placed second to Lewiston at the East regionals as they were led by Jonathan Stanhope who placed second overall. Look for Bangor to challenge for a top three finish on Saturday.

7. Massabesic

Pre: 7 Meet: WMR Class A Place: 3rd

Massabesic got strong individual efforts from Michael Aboud and Andrew Mongiat as they helped place third as a team. Expect Massabesic to challenge for a top five finish on Saturday.

8. Mt. Blue

Pre: 8 Meet: EMR Class A Place: 3rd

Josh Horne led Mt. Blue to a third place finish as he took home the individual victory running a fast time of 16:12.94. Look for Mt. Blue to contend for a top five finish on Saturday.

9. Windham

Pre: 10 Meet: WMR Class A Place: 4th

Windham placed fourth at the Class A WMR as they were led by Nate Skvorak who placed fifteenth overall. Expect Windham to challenge for a top five finish on Saturday.

10. York

Pre: UR Meet: WMR Class B Place: 2nd

York was the runner up at the Class B WMR as they were led by Alexander Brockleman as he placed 12th overall. Look for York to contend for a top five finish in Class B. 

Team of the Week: Cape Elizabeth

Teams Knocking: Gorham, South Portland, GNG, Messalonskee, Freeport

Boys Team Rankings Week 7

1. Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 2 Meet: WMC Championships Place: 1st
Cape Elizabeth took home the WMC Championship as they were paced by Liam Simpson's second place finish. They are the heavy favorites to win the Western B Regional on Saturday.

2. Lewiston
Pre: 1 Meet: KVAC Championships Place: 2nd
Lewiston placed second at the KVAC Championships as they were running without their number three runner Mohamed Mohamed. They are still considered the favorite in Class A East.

3. Ellsworth
Pre: 4 Meet: PVC Championships Place: 1st
Ellsworth continues to dominate the PVC despite running without Dan Curts. They are the overwhelming favorites to win the Eastern B title on Saturday.

4. Scarborough
Pre: 3 Meet: at Windham Place: 1st
Ellsworth easily topped SMAA rivals Gorham and Windham as they were led by Jacob Terry's second place finish. They are the favorites to win the Western A Regional on Saturday.

5. Bangor
Pre: 6 Meet: KVAC Championships Place: 1st
Bangor was a surprise victor at the KVAC Championships as they were led by Jonathan Stanhope's sixth place finish. Look for Bangor to challenge Lewiston for the Eastern A title on Saturday.

6. Falmouth
Pre: 4 Meet: WMC Championships Place: 2nd
Falmouth placed second at the WMC Championships as they were led by Bryce Murdick who placed fourth overall. Look for Falmouth to challenge Scarborough for the Western A title on Saturday.

7. Massabesic
Pre: 7 Meet: at Marshwood Place: 1st
Massabesic was very impressive in their win at Marshwood as they placed five runners in the top six overall. Look for them to challenge Scarborough and Falmouth for the Western A title on Saturday.

8. Mt. Blue
Pre: 8 Meet: KVAC Championships Place: 3rd
Mt. Blue placed third at the KVAC Championships as their duo of Josh Horne and Aaron Willingham placed first and third respectively. Look for them to challenge for a top three finish at the Eastern A regionals on Saturday.

9. Brewer
Pre: 9 Meet: KVAC Championships Place: 4th
Brewer placed fourth at the KVAC Championships as they Luke Rand's 13th place finish. Look for Brewer to contend for a top five finish at the Eastern A regionals on Saturday.

10. Windham
Pre: 10 Meet: Home Place: 2nd
Windham placed second on their home course behind Scarborough as they were led by Nate Skvorak's third place finish. Look for Windham to challenge for a top five finish at the Western A regionals on Saturday.

Team of the Week: Bangor

Teams Knocking: Gorham, Mt. Ararat, Hampden, Maranacook

Boys Team Rankings Week 6

1. Lewiston
Pre: 1 Meet: Lewiston Under the Lights Place:
Lewiston had their traditional under the lights mile race as they had several strong performances most notably Isaiah Harris' sub 4:30 performance. Lewiston is the strong favorite to win the KVAC Championships.

2. Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 2 Meet: Idle Place: Idle
Cape Elizabeth chose to rest their varsity runners at Kennebunk last Friday. They are the favorites heading into the WMC Championships on Friday.

3. Scarborough
Pre: 3 Meet: Home Place: 1st
The Red Storm were very impressive in their win at home as they averaged 17:12 over the 5k course. Colin Tardiff placed first overall. Scarborough heads to Windham on Friday.

4. Falmouth
Pre: 4 Meet: at Greely Place:1st
Falmouth showed off their depth at Greely as they were without their 3 and 4 runners and still managed to win easily. Bryce Murdick placed first overall. Look for Falmouth to challenge Cape for the WMC title on Friday.

5. Ellsworth
Pre: 5 Meet: Hancock County Championships Place: 1st
Ellsworth easily defended their Hancock County Championship without Dan Curts. Bryaden Beardsley was the individual winner. Ellsworth is the heavy favorite going into the PVC Championships on Saturday.

6. Bangor
Pre: 9 Meet: Mt. Blue Relays Place: 1st
Bangor pulled out a tremendous victory at the Mt. Blue Relays as they got a huge run  by Ben Salinas as he placed third overall. They are one of the favorites heading into the KVAC Championships.

7. Massabesic
Pre: 6 Meet: at Gorham Place: 2nd
Massabesic placed second at Gorham as they were competing without their number one runner. Massabesic heads to Sanford on Friday.

8. Mt. Blue
Pre: 8 Meet: Mt. Blue Relays Place: 2nd
Mt. Blue placed second to Bangor by less than half a second at the Mt. Blue Relays as Aaron Willingham set a new course record. Look for Mt. Blue to contend for the win at the KVAC Championships.

9. Brewer
Pre: 7 Meet: Mt. Blue Relays Place: 4th
Brewer placed fourth at the Mt. Blue Relays behind Luke Rand's 14th place finish. Look for Brewer to contend for a top five finish at the KVAC Championships.

10. Windham
Pre: 10 Meet: Home Place: 1st
Windham placed first on their home course as they had an impressive 23 second split between their 1-5 runners. Windham races on their home course again on Friday.

Team of the Week: Bangor

Teams Knocking: Mt. Ararat, Hampden, Messalonskee, Maranacook, Gorham, Boothby, South Portland

Boys Team Rankings Week 5

1. Lewiston
Pre: 5 Meet: FOC Place: 1st
Lewiston showed how deep they are as they had five runners run under 17 minutes. Isaiah Harris was their top finisher as he placed 8th. Lewiston had an average 5k of 16:34. Look for them to come out victorious again at the Mt. Blue Relays.

2. Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 1 Meet: FOC Place: 3rd
Cape Elizabeth was the top Class B team at FOC as Liam Simspon led them with a fifth place finish. Cape heads to Kennebunk on Friday where they should go unchallenged.

3. Scarborough
Pre: 2 Meet: FOC Place: 4th
Scarborough placed fourth at the festival of champions as they had three runners under 17 minutes (Tardiff, Terry, Sholl). The Red Storm race on their home course on Friday.

4. Falmouth
Pre: 4 Meet: FOC Place: 5th
The Yachtsmen got a 12th place finish from Bryce Murdick as he led Falmouth to the number five team on Saturday. Falmouth heads to Greely on Friday where they should go unchallenged.

5. Ellsworth
Pre: 3 Meet: FOC Place: 12th
Ellsworth caught a tough break as Dan Curts was unable to finish on Saturday. They got a very strong run from Robert Looker who placed tenth. Hopefully Curts will be back and ready to go at the Hancock County Championships on Friday.

6. Massabesic
Pre: 7 Meet: FOC Place: 7th
Massabesic placed seventh at FOC behind Michael Aboud's 32nd place finish. Look for Massabesic to come out victorious at Gorham on Friday.

7. Brewer
Pre: 8 Meet: FOC Place: 8th
Brewer had a very strong day on Saturday as they placed 8th behind Luke Rand's 37th place finish. Look for Brewer to contend for the win at the Mt. Blue Relays.

8. Mt. Blue
Pre: UR Meet: FOC Place: 9th
Mt. Blue got two sub 16 performances from Aaron Willingham and Josh Horne as they placed ninth overall at FOC. Look for Mt. Blue to challenge for the win at the Mt. Blue Relays.

9. Bangor
Pre: 6 Meet: FOC Place: 10th
Bangor placed tenth at FOC behind Jonathan Stanhope's 19th place finish. Look for bangor to contend for a top three finish at the Mt. Blue Relays.

10. Windham
Pre: 10 Meet: FOC Place: 13th
Windham placed 13th at FOC behind Nate Skvorak's 41st place finish. They race on their home course on Friday where they are the favorites to win.

Team of the Week: Lewiston

Teams Knocking:  Mt. Ararat, Hampden, Messalonskee, Maranacook, Gorham, Boothby, South Portland

Boys Team Rankings Week 4

1. Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 1 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 5th (elite race)
Cape Elizabeth placed fifth in a very competitive elite race. Liam Simpson was the top runner for them as he placed ninth running a time of 16:13. Cape is the heavy favorite heading into the Festival of Champions on Saturday.

2. Scarborough
Pre: 2 Meet: at Marshwood Place: 1st
The Red Storm came out victorious at Marshwood as they were led by Colin Tardiff's runner up finish. The Red Storm should challenge Cape for the win at FOC.

3. Ellsworth
Pre: 3 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 3rd (small schools race)
Ellsworth placed third in the small schools race behind Dan Curts' legendary performance. They also got a great run from Brayden Beardsley as he broke the 17 minute barrier for the first time. Look for Ellsworth to be in the running for a top finish at FOC.

4. Falmouth
Pre: 4 Meet: at Kittery Place: 1st
Falmouth was easily victorious at Kittery despite having their top three runners run off course. Josh Simenski picked up his first win of the season running 17:27. Look for Falmouth to challenge for a top three finish at FOC.

5. Lewiston
Pre: 5 Meet: Oxford Hills Place: 1st
Lewiston notched another victory last week, this time at Oxford hills as their top runners went 1-4 overall. Lewiston is another team who will challenge for a top three finish at FOC.

6. Bangor
Pre: 6 Meet: at Brunswick Place: 1st
Bangor dispatched their top rivals in the KVAC at Brunswick as they were led by Jonathan Stanhope's fifth place finish. Look for Bangor to contend for a top five finish at FOC.

7. Massabesic
Pre: 7 Meet: Manchester Invitational Place: 8th (Large School)
Massabesic placed 8th in the large school race behind Michael Aboud's 23rd place finish. Look for Massabesic to contend for a top five finish at FOC.

8. Brewer
Pre: 9 Meet: at Cony Place: 1st
Brewer used their tight pack to take home the win at Cony. Luke Rand was their top finisher placing fifth overall. Look for Brewer to contend for a top five finish at FOC.

9. Windham
Pre: UR Meet: at Massabesic Place: 1st
Windham beat SMAA rival Massabesic behind Nate Skvorak's first place finish. Windham looks like a strong team heading towards the post season.

10. Mt. Ararat
Pre: 8 Meet: at Brunswick Place: 2nd
Mt. Ararat placed second to Bangor in a very competitive KVAC meet. Sam Wood was their top finisher running a time of 16:48. Look for Mt. Ararat to contend for a top ten finish at FOC.

Team of the Week: Cape Elizabeth

Teams Knocking: Mt. Blue, Gorham, Greely, York

Boys Team Rankings Week 3

1. Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 1 Meet: at NYA Place: 1st
Cape continues to roll through the WMC this season as they were victorious at NYA behind Liam Simpson's first place finish. Cape races at Gray on Friday.

2. Scarborough
Pre: 2 Meet: at Smiling Hill Farm Place: 1st
The Red Storm easily defeated some of their top SMAA rivals as they were led by Jacob Terry's first place finish. Scarborough heads to Marshwood on Friday.

3. Ellsworth
Pre: 3 Meet: at GSA Place: 1st
Ellsworth showed just how deep they are as they had five runners all run under 16:45 on the three mile course. Ellsworth will head to the Manchester Invitational this Saturday.

4. Falmouth
Pre: 4 Meet: Home Place: 1st
Falmouth used their home course to its advantage as they dominated the three team meet behind Bryce Murdick's second place finish. Falmouth races at York on Friday.

5. Lewiston
Pre: 6 Meet: at Leavitt Place: 1st
Lewiston was very impressive in their win at Leavitt as they easily defeated Mt. Blue behind Mohamed Awil's second place finish. Lewiston heads to Oxford Hills on Friday.

6. Bangor
Pre: 5 Meet: at MCI Place: 2nd
Bangor ran without Jacob Archer and Caleb Halvorson-Fried as they placed second to MCI. Colin Glencross was the top Ram as he placed third overall. Bangor races at Brunswick on Thursday.

7. Massabesic
Pre: 7 Meet: at South Portland Place: 1st
Massabesic held off a tough challenge from Deering as they were led by Michael Aboud who placed second running the 2.76 mile course in 15:04. Massabesic races on their home course this Friday.

8. Mt. Ararat
Pre: 8 Meet: home Place: 1st
Mt. Ararat received a serious threat from Brewer as they were able to pull out a two point victory behind the front running ability of Sam Wood and Nate MacKenzie who placed first and second respectively. Mt. Ararat heads to Brunswick on Thursday.

9. Brewer
Pre: 9 Meet: at Mt. Ararat Place: 2nd
Brewer showed off their depth as they had five runners in the top nine overall. Brewer heads to Cony on Friday.

10. Gorham
Pre: UR Meet: at Biddeford Place: 1st
Gorham was victorious at Biddeford as they were led by Jesse Southard who placed first overall. Gorham heads to Sanford on Friday.

Team of the Week:  Ellsworth

Teams Knocking: Windham, Mt. Blue, Greely, York, Morse

Boys Individual Rankings Week 2

1. Dan Curts Ellsworth

Pre: 1 Meet: N/A Place: N/A Time: N/A
Ellsworth was one of the many teams who didn't compete this weekend. That shouldn't effect Curt's ranking for the time being. Look for Curts to run a fast time when Ellsworth competes at Blue Hill on Friday.

2. Josef Holt Telstar

Pre: 2 Meet: at Telstar Place: 1st Time: 16:26
Holt made it look easy as he cruised to a winning time of 16:26 on his home course. He was nearly two minutes ahead of the runner up. Look for Holt to run another fast time this week.

3. Ben Trapani Camden Hills

Pre: 3 Meet: at Belfast Place: 1st Time: 17:10
Trapani had no difficulty taking the win at Belfast as he cruised to a time of 17:10. Look for Trapani to notch another win at Medomak Valley on Friday.

4. Ben Decker Yarmouth
Pre: 4 Meet: at LR Place: 1st Time: 15:16 (2.8m)
Decker was impressive in his xc debut as he took home the victory at Lake Region winning by over twenty seconds. Let's hope he continues to run more races this season. If he runs this week, he will be the favorite to win at Falmouth on Friday.

5. Will Shafer GNG
Pre: 9 Meet: at Sacopee Valley Place: 1st Time: 17:31
Shafer continued his fine season last Friday as he took home his third win of the season running a time of 17:31. Look for him to run a fast time at Lake Region on Friday.

6. Josh Horne Mt. Blue
Pre: 6 Meet: at Lawrence Place: 1st Time: 17:29
Horne cruised past his teammate Aaron Willingham at Lawrence as he ran a solid time of 17:29. He will face a tough challenge when he races against Lewiston's best this Friday.

7. Jonathan Stanhope
Pre: 7 Meet: N/A Place: N/A Time: N/A
Bangor's meet at Waterville was another casualty of the unfortunate weather. Look for Stanhope to run a fast time at MCI on Friday.

8. Braden Becker Yarmouth
Pre: UR Meet: at LR Place: 2nd Time: 15:36 (2.8m)
Becker outkicked Cape's Liam Simpson by two seconds at Lake Region to take second place. Look for Becker to run a fast time at Falmouth on Friday.

9. Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth
Pre: 8 Meet: at LR Place: 3rd Time: 15:38 (2.8m)
Simpson placed third at Lake Region running a fast time of 15:38. Look for him to go unchallenged at NYA on Friday.

10. Aaron Willingham Mt. Blue
Pre: 5 Meet: at Lawrence Place: 2nd Time: 17:49
Willingham placed second to teammate Josh Horne at Lawrence last Friday as he ran a time of 17:49. He will face off against the talented Lewiston squad this Friday.

Runner of the Week: Josef Holt Telstar

Runners Knocking: Caleb Lord Hampden, Sam Wood Mt. Ararat, Isaiah Harris Mt. Blue, Jesse Southard Gorham, Farhan Abdillahi Lewiston, Colin Tardiff Scarborough, Jacob Terry Scarborough, Ryan Cadorette Thornton, Bryce Murdick Falmouth

Boys Team Rankings Week 2

1. Cape Elizabeth
Previous: 1 Meet: at Lake Region Place: 1st
The Capers won in dominating fashion at Lake Region as they were led by Liam Simpson's third place finish. They put five in the top seven overall. Cape competes at NYA on Friday.

2. Scarborough
Previous: 3 Meet: at Portland Place: 1st
The Red Storm continue to roll as they easily defeated Massabesic, Portland and Biddeford. They placed five in the top seven and had an average time of 17:03. Scarborough heads to Westbrook on Friday.

3. Ellsworth
Previous: 2 Meet: Bye Place: N/A
Ellsworth didn't compete this weekend, but expect them to win when they head to Blue Hill on Friday.

4. Falmouth
Previous: 5 Meet: at Fryeburg Place: 1st
Falmouth looked very impressive in their win at Fryeburg as they were paced by Bryce Murdick who won running a time of 17:20. Falmouth hosts four WMC teams this Friday.

5. Bangor
Previous: 4 Meet: at Waterville Place: ?
Results from the meet at Waterville have yet to be posted, but that shouldn't effect
Bangor. Expect them cruise to victory when the head to MCI on Friday.

6. Lewiston 
Previous: UR Meet: at Leavitt Place: 1st
Lewiston edged Mt. Ararat by a score of 42-45 behind Faran Abdillahi's second place finish. With the emergence of Abdillahi, look for Lewiston to make another run at a state title this fall.

7. Massabesic
Previous: 7 Meet: at Portland Place: 2nd
Massabesic placed second to Scarborough as they were led by Michael Aboud's fourth place finish. Massabesic heads to South Portland on Friday.

8. Mt. Ararat
Previous: 8 Meet: at Leavit Place: 2nd
Mt. Ararat placed second to Lewiston as they were led by Sam Wood who won the race running a time of 17:45. Mt. Ararat hosts a very competitive KVAC meet this Friday.

9. Brewer
Previous: UR Meet: at Lawrence Place: 1st
Brewer upset Mt. Blue at Lawrence as they were led by Luke Rand's fourth place finish. Brewer heads to Mt. Ararat on Fridat.

10. Mt. Blue
Previous: 6 Meet: at Lawrence Place: 2nd
Mt. Blue's top three of Josh Horne, Aaron Willingham and Dan Lesko took the top three spots respectively but were unable to hold on against Brewer. Look for Mt. Blue to bounce back when they head to Leavitt on Friday.

Team of the Week: Scarborough

Teams Knocking: Gorham, Windham, Greely, York, Morse

Boys Team Rankings Week 1

1. Cape Elizabeth
Previous: 1 Meet: Home Place: 1st
The Capers easily dispatched their top foe Falmouth behind Liam Simpson's victory. Cape placed five in the top seven overall. Cape heads to Lake Region on Friday.

2. Ellsworth
Previous: 2 Meet: Ellsworth Invitational Place: 1st
Ellsworth made it look easy on their home course, as they cruised to the victory behind Dan Curts's first place performance. Ellsworth will compete at the Presque Isle invitational on Saturday.

3. Scarborough 
Previous: 5 Meet: SMAA Relays Place: 1st
The Red Storm easily outdistanced themselves from their top foes at the SMAA Relays behind a fourth place finish from Jacob Terry. Scarborough heads to Portland on Friday.

4. Bangor 
Previous: 3 Meet: Home Place: 1st
Bangor dominated on their home course behind Jonathan Stanhope's impressive victory. He covered the 3.05 mile course in 16:08. Bangor heads to Waterville on Friday.

5. Falmouth
Previous: 4 Meet: @ Cape Place: 2nd
The Yachtsmen placed second to their rival Cape Elizabeth on Friday. They were lead by Bryce Murdick's runner up finish. Falmouth heads to Fryeburg this Friday.

6. Mt. Blue
Previous: UR Meet: Home Place: 1st
The emergence of transfer Aaron Willingham has put Mt. Blue as one of the favorites in Class A. He broke the Mt. Blue course record (formerly held by current UMaine star Kelton Cullenberg) in a time of 17:01. Mt. Blue races at Lawrence on Thursday.

7. Massabesic
Previous: 7 Meet: SMAA Relays Place: 2nd
Massabesic showed they belong in the discussion as one of the top teams in the SMAA as they placed second at the relays behind Michael Aboud's 8th place finish. Massabesic heads to Portland on Friday.

8. Mt. Ararat
Previous: 9 Meet: @ Maranacook Place: 1st
Mt. Ararat placed first in a very competitive early season KVAC meet behind the performances of Sam Wood and Nate Mackenzie. They placed first and second overall. Mt. Ararat heads to Lewiston on Friday.

9. Gorham
Previous: 6 Meet: SMAA Relays Place: 3rd
Gorham placed third at the SMAA Relays behind Jesse Southard's sixth place finish. Gorham competes at Deering on Friday.

10. Windham
Previous: 9 Meet: SMAA Relays Place: 4th
Windham placed fourth at the SMAA Relays due in part to Nake Skorvak's ninth place finish. Windham heads to Cheverus on Friday.

Team of the Week: Ellsworth

Teams Knocking: Lewiston, Brewer, Hampden Academy, Brunswick, MDI

Preseason Rankings: Boys Individuals

1.       Dan Curts Ellsworth

              SB: 15:42 States 2013: 1^st Class B

Curts looks poised to have a spectacular final season on the trails as he hopes to win his second straight xc title. He had a tremendous outdoor season running 4:14 and 9:15 in the 1600 and 3200 respectively. Look for Curts to contend for the individual title at the New England Championships and perhaps make a run at Footlocker Nationals.

2.       Josef Holt Telstar

SB: 15:59 States 2013: 2^nd Class C

 

 

The senior from Telstar will be gunning for his elusive first xc title this fall. His outdoor track season indicates he’s ready to do that after he set the All-Time Maine record in the 5k running 14:57. Along with Curts, he’s a threat to win the New England title and make a run at Footlocker Nationals.

3.       Ben Decker Yarmouth

SB: DNR States 2013: DNR

Decker hasn’t run a single cross country meet in his career, but his 32:40 at Beach to Beacon indicates he’s ready for a monster year on the trails. He had some great success on the track as well as we saw him run 9:41 in the 3200. Look for him to contend for the runner up spot in Class B.

4.       Ben Trapani Camden Hills

SB: 16:36 States 2013: 3^rd Class B

Trapani had a breakout season last fall as we saw him place third in the Class B state meet. He’s the top returner in the KVAC and should challenge Ben Decker for the runner up position at the state meet.

5.       Josh Horne Mt. Blue

SB: 16:47 States 2013: 4^th Class A

Horne emerged late in the season as one of the top runners in Class A last fall as evidence to his fourth place finish at the state meet. He’s already off to a great start as he came out victorious at the Laliberte Invitational running the 2.4 mile course in 13:21.95. He’s the early favorite in Class A this year.

6.       Isaiah Harris Lewiston

SB: 16:50 States 2013: 6^th Class A

Harris’s emergence last year was one of the biggest storylines of the entire season. After a sixth place finish at the state meet, he became one of the best 800 runners Maine has ever seen running 1:53.35. With his blazing speed, look for Harris to contend for the individual title in Class A.

7.       Liam Simpson Cape Elizabeth

SB: 16:41 States 2013: 6^th Class B

The senior from Cape Elizabeth is returning after a great outdoor season in which we saw him run 9:49.5 in the 3200. He was also the third Maine high school finisher at Beach to Beacon running 34:54. Look for Simpson to challenge for a top three finish in Class B.

8.       Will Shafer GNG

SB: 17:04 States 2013: 10^th Class B

The mid-distance star from Gray has already gotten off to a great start this season as he placed first at the Lake Region Invitational covering the 2.75 mile course in 15:22. Shafer is as talented as anybody in the state and could very well challenge for a top three finish in Class B this fall.

9.       Jesse Southard Gorham

SB: 17:22 States 2013: 19^th Class A

Southard is out to prove he belongs amongst the best runners in Class A after his 16:51 performance at the Jack Wilkinson Invitational. He’s the top returner in the SMAA and should contend for the state title.

10.   Jonathan Stanhope Bangor

SB: 16:24 States 2013: 14^th Class A

Stanhope has been one of the most consistent runners in Class A for the past two years. He had a great year on the track as we saw him run 10:10 in the 3200. He is amongst the handful of runners who will contend for the individual title.

 

Runners Knocking on the Door: Braden Becker Yarmouth, Peter Doane Cape Elizabeth, Caleb Lord Hampden, Robert Looker Ellsworth, Mohamed Mohamed Lewiston

Preseason Rankings: Boys Teams

1. Cape Elizabeth
   Last Year's Finish: 1^st Class B
   Top Returners: Liam Simpson, Peter Doane, Kyle Kennedy
   Cape Elizabeth brings back their entire top five which makes them the heavy favorite to defend their state title. Simpson and Doane form arguably the best duo in the state, and their 3-5 runners are good enough to be many teams number one or number two runners.
2. Ellsworth
   Last Year's Finish: 3^rd Class B
   Top Returners: Dan Curts, Robert Looker, Andy Beardsley
   Ellsworth brings back the top runner in the state in Dan Curts. He's the heavy favorite to win his second straight title. This isn't a one man show. Looker had a breakout season last fall as we saw him place sixth. With those two at the top, and strong 3-5 runners look for Ellsworth to challenge Cape Elizabeth for the title.
3. Bangor
   Last Year's Finish: 4^th Class A
   Top Returners: Jon Stanhope, Colin Glencross, Caleb Halvorson-Fried
   Depth is the reason why Bangor is the early favorite to take the Class A title. Jon Stanhope is their top returner as he should be in the running for the individual title. Glencross and Halvorson-Fried had great seasons last year, and should improve this fall.
4. Falmouth
   Last Year's Finish: 2^nd Class B
   Top Returners: Bryce Murdick, Spencer Brown, Scott Lambert
   Like Bangor, Falmouth is a team that has a lot of depth. Bryce Murdick is their top returner. He placed 11^th at the state meet last fall. Look for him to be in contention for a top five finish this year. With their quality of depth look for the Yachtsmen to challenge Bangor for the state title.
5. Scarborough
   Last Year's Finish: 3^rd Class A
   Top Returners: Jacob Terry, Colin Tardiff, Ian Morris
   The Red Storm lose Robby Hall to graduation which will hurt them, but they return several runners who are capable of making another patented Scarborough title run. Jacob Terry is their top returner. Look for Scarborough to challenge Bangor and Falmouth for the Class A title.
6. Gorham
   Last Year's Finish: 7^th Class A
   Top Returners: Jesse Southard, Jeremy Collett, Thomas Bradshaw
   Jesse Southard will lead a hopeful Gorham squad this fall as they hope to improve upon their seventh place finish from last fall. Expect Southard to be one of the favorites in Class A, and for Gorham to make a run at a top three finish.
7. Massabesic
   Last Year's Finish: 1^st Class A
   Top Returners: Michael Aboud, Remington Gaetjens, Andrew Mongiat
   Massabesic brings back three of their top five from a team the won a state championship last year which should bode well for them. The key will be their 3-5 runners. If they continue to improve Massabesic will be a force in Class A this year.
8. Mt. Ararat
   Last Year's Finish: 9^th Class A
   Top Returners: Sam Wood, Nate Mackenzie, Matt Gott
   Mt. Ararat brings back one of the top duos in the KVAC in Sam Wood and Nate Mackenzie which makes them one of the favorites in the conference. They have underrated depth as well. Look for them to contend for a top five finish.
9. Windham
   Last Year's Finish: 8^th Class A
   Top Retuners: Nate Skvorak, Andrew Davis, Jonathan Bland
   Windham brings back one of the top runners in the SMAA in Nate Skvorak as they hope to improve upon their 8^th place showing in Class A last fall. Look for them to contend for a top five finish.
10. Lewiston
    Last Year's Finish: 2^nd Class A
    Top Returners: Isaiah Harris, Mohamed Mohamed, Mohamed Awil
    Lewiston brings back three of their top four from a runner up squad last fall. Awil is their top returner, but both Harris and Awil should also challenge for the top spot. This trio is arguably the best in the state. The key for them will be their four and five runners. If they develop, they could be incredibly strong by the post season.

Knocking on the Door: Brewer, Hampden Academy, Maranacook, MDI, Brunswick