Runners headed for WAC

Great Bend's girls, the multi-year defending Western Athletic Conference cross country champion, will be challenged by Dodge City Thursday at Liberal.

"It was a great week to train and get extra work in," said Great Bend coach Lyles Lashley. "We've had good quality workouts and pushed them hard. We're looking forward to seeing them roll again at Liberal."

Wichita runner-up Sydney Stein (18:50.98) and third-place Decorah Schroeter (18:57.0) join Bella Long as a quality threesome.

"Decorah and Sydney are the second and third runners to break 19 minutes at Wichita," Lashley said. "It'll likely come down to Dodge City and Great Bend girls for first place."

Multi-year state qualifier Tavon Stroup and Brogan Lashley lead the boys team.

"Hopefully, our boys will give Dodge City a run for second place behind Garden City," Lashley said.

The 5A cross country regional will be held at Lake Barton.
"It's an advantage to competing at your home course," Lashley said. "You know all the turns."